A/C Replacement Costs: Everything You Need to Know | Midea
Discover top tips for A/C replacement: spot the signs you need a new unit, understand costs, and know what you can and can't reuse. Midea guides you through the process.
A/C Replacement Costs: Everything You Need To Know
Is your A/C struggling to keep up on scorching hot summer days or leaving you sweating over rising energy bills?
If your A/C is on its last legs, the thought of replacing it can be overwhelming. How much will it cost? What’s the right choice for your home? And how do you avoid overpaying?
Take a deep breath—we’ve got all the answers you need right here so you can make the best decision!
So, how much does it cost to replace an air conditioner? Let’s find out.
Is It Time for an Upgrade? Spotting the Signs
If you notice any of these signs, chances are, it’s time to replace your air conditioner!
The cost of frequent breakdowns or repairs adding up.
Decreased efficiency, leading to higher energy bills.
Inconsistent cooling or difficulty maintaining desired temperatures.
Unusual noises or smells coming from the unit.
Your system uses outdated refrigerants, like R22 (also known as HCFC-22). This is being phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties.
Your unit is over 10–15 years old.
The Age-Old Question: How Long Do A/Cs Really Last?
A split system can last 10 to 15 years, and a ducted system can last 15 to 20 years.
Several factors will affect the lifespan of your system:
Regular maintenance and servicing.
The quality of the installation.
Environmental (coastal air or extreme temperatures).
High usage.
What You Potentially Can Reuse When Replacing an A/C
You may be able to reuse some parts of your old A/C when installing a new one to save money on materials and labour costs.
The final decision will depend on your air conditioning installer’s assessment of the components’ condition and compatibility with the new system.
The Existing Drain
A condensate drain is a pipe that removes excess moisture (condensate) produced by your split or ducted system during cooling to prevent leaks, water damage, and mould growth.
As the A/C cools warm air, condensation forms on the evaporator coil and then flows to the drain.
Your existing drain may be reusable if it’s free of blockages and cracks.
The Existing Outdoor Unit Slab/Wall Bracket
A slab is a concrete or durable base placed on the ground to keep the outdoor unit stable, level, and elevated off the soil. Alternatively, a wall bracket mounts the unit securely to a wall, saving ground space and improving airflow around the unit.
You can reuse the existing slab or bracket if the size and weight of the new outdoor unit are compatible. The location of the slab or bracket must also meet the new system's requirements for proper clearance and ventilation.
A slab cannot have cracks or be affected by erosion, and its surface must be level. A damaged or uneven slab can cause vibrations or noise.
A wall bracket should not be rusty, corroded, or bent. Any signs of wear can compromise stability and safety.
The Existing Electrical Cable
If the existing electrical wiring meets current safety standards, matches the voltage and capacity requirements of the new air conditioning unit, and is in good condition with no cable fraying or wear, it may be reused.
However, a licensed electrician will need to inspect the wiring to confirm all this.
Cable upgrades or new circuit breakers may be required to handle increased electrical loads safely for new, higher-capacity or energy-efficient units.
The Existing Trunking
Trunking is the protective channel that houses and protects refrigerant pipes, electrical wiring, and drainage lines.
Your current system’s trunking may be reused if it’s structurally sound, clean of dust and grime, and aligns with the new system's pipe diameters and wiring configurations.
The Existing Ductwork for a Ducted Unit
Ductwork is a network of big tubes in a ducted system that distribute cooled or heated air throughout your home. It connects the central unit to vents in various rooms.
To reuse ductwork from an old system, it must not have holes, tears, or leaks, and the insulation layer should be completely intact to prevent energy loss. The ductwork should also be clean of dust, mould, and debris.
Plus, the duct size and airflow capacity must work with the requirements of the new system and its outlet sizes.
The Existing Ducted Air Outlets
Ducted air outlets are the vents or grilles installed in ceilings or floors in a ducted air conditioning system. They allow the conditioned air from the ductwork to flow into each room.
Ducted air outlets can often be reused if they’re not rusted, cracked, or warped, and their outlets are the same size as the new ductwork.
What You Can’t Reuse When Replacing an A/C
The Existing Pipework
In split and ducted systems, pipework refers to the copper pipes connecting indoor and outdoor units. These pipes transport refrigerant, enabling the cooling or heating process.
Existing pipework cannot be reused because
New systems often use modern refrigerants that are incompatible with the piping used for older refrigerants.
Old pipework may contain residual refrigerant oils or debris that could contaminate the new system and cause damage.
The manufacturer may void the system’s warranty, as old pipework could compromise performance or lead to faults.
The Existing Indoor or Outdoor Unit
You may be tempted to reuse your indoor or outdoor unit if either one seems to still be in good nick.
This is not possible because indoor and outdoor units are designed to work together. Mixing old and new can cause malfunctions or cooling and heating inefficiencies.
Also, manufacturers require both units to be replaced to maintain warranty coverage.
The Existing Indoor Wall Bracket for a Split System
The existing indoor wall bracket for a split system cannot be reused because new indoor units often have different dimensions or mounting points that don’t align with the old bracket.
And again, the system’s warranty comes into play. Manufacturers typically require the use of a new bracket designed specifically for the new unit to ensure proper installation and maintain warranty coverage.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace an Air Conditioner?
Please keep in mind that the following prices are only estimates to help you plan your budget and compare options for installing air conditioning. For accurate prices, consult A/C suppliers and professional air conditioning installers in your area.
Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
A ducted air conditioner costs, on average, between $8,000 and $15,000 for a standard home, depending on the system’s brand, capacity, and features.
Installation can cost $5,000 to $10,000.
Total: $13,000–$25,000.
Factors Influencing Installation Costs
Complexity of removing old units and ductwork and installing new ones.
Accessibility of the ceiling space.
Distance between outdoor and indoor units, as this affects piping length.
Structural modifications: reinforcing ceiling timbers.
Electrical upgrades: upgrading the circuit breaker or installing a dedicated electrical circuit.
Split System Air Conditioners
The average cost of a split system can range from $700 to $3,500.
Split system installation costs can vary from $600 to $1,500 per unit.
Total: $1,300–$5,000.
Factors Influencing Installation Costs
Ease of access to outdoor and indoor unit locations.
Wall material and structural considerations for mounting units.
Distance between indoor and outdoor units, as this affects piping length.
Need for additional wiring, power points, or electrical upgrades.
Why Choose Midea for Your Air Conditioner Replacement?
How much does it cost to replace an air conditioner?
It depends on the system you choose, the complexity of the air conditioning installation, and if any parts from your old system can be reused. We hope this guide has given you a good general idea of the costs involved.
If it’s time to replace your old air conditioner, look no further than Midea. We offer a wide range of affordable, energy-efficient split and ducted air conditioning systems for homes of all shapes and sizes.
And with a generous 7-year warranty on parts and labour, you can rely on your Midea A/C to keep you comfortable year after year, no matter what the Aussie weather throws your way!
Browse the Midea range online today, then call 1300 726 002 to speak to a helpful Midea team member about general enquiries or technical support. Alternatively, complete this online form, and we’ll contact you soon.
FAQs on “How Much Does It Cost To Replace an Air Conditioner?”
How Often Does an A/C Need To Be Replaced?
Air conditioners typically last 10 to 15 years, depending on the type of air conditioner, usage, maintenance, and climate.
Is It Worth Replacing an Old Air Conditioner?
It certainly is! Newer models are more energy-efficient, leading to lower electricity bills. They also offer improved performance, enhanced indoor air quality, and possible updated features like smart thermostats and remote app control. Additionally, modern units use eco-friendly refrigerants, reducing environmental impact.
How Do I Know When My A/C Needs Replacing?
Consider replacing your air conditioner if you notice these signs of aging and declining performance:
The unit is over 10–15 years old.
You're scheduling repairs more often.
Unexplained increases in energy costs.
Some rooms are too hot or too cold.
Strange sounds or smells coming from the unit.
The system uses R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out.