Before you buy an air conditioner, you need to know the prices on the market so you can find the best deal.
It is common to wonder what the average price for an air conditioner is but the answer is not an easy one. You see, the price depends on several factors but it may be safe to say that it falls somewhere between $3,000 and $5,000.
There are, however, some types of air conditioners which may be cheaper or more expensive. As mentioned earlier, some variables determine the price but we can help you understand them so you can pick the best unit for your home.
Fortunately, we have reliable and reputable HVAC partners that can provide you with competitive quotes tailored to your needs. They will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have and to offer you custom solutions to suit your budget.
Read on to know more about choosing the right air conditioner for your home in Ontario and compare free and no-obligation quotes using our short online form!
What to look for when buying an air conditioner
While shopping for the best air conditioner for your home, you need to look for 2 essential factors -SEER AND EER.
The efficiency of air conditioners is determined by using these two factors;Energy-Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
The SEER is calculated by dividing the cooling output during winter with the electrical output. A higher SEER means the air conditioner is energy efficient which is to your advantage. Under Canadian law, air conditioning systems must have a minimum SEER of 13. By switching your old unit to a new one with a minimum SEER of 13, you can save on your energy consumption by as much as 30%.
If you buy a unit with a higher SEER, it is likely to be more expensive but it will save you a lot of money over time from your monthly energy bill.
The Energy Efficiency Ratio or EER refers to the cooling effect from your AC for each unit of electrical energy consumed when operated. It is calculated by dividing the British thermal units (BTU) per hour by the electrical power input in watts. A unit with a higher EER is more energy efficient.
Canada regulations require that room air conditioners must have EnerGuide labels to help you choose the best products that meet efficiency performance standards.
In addition, ENERGY STAR symbols also help consumers choose top air conditioners for energy efficiency.
If you replace an old unit with an ENERGY STAR qualified product, you can get more substantial savings with 30% to 40% reduction in energy use.
Types of air conditioners to choose from
You can choose from two basic types of air conditioners – central air conditioners and room air conditioners.
Central air conditioners are designed to cool an entire house while room air conditioners cool a specific room.
Each type offers several models to suit your needs and budget.
Room air conditioners are available in:
- Window-mounted units for single and double-hung windows or for sliding and casement windows.
- Wall-mounted units
- Free standing units that can be moved but require ducting that connects to the outdoors.
Central air conditioners are available in:
- Single-package units mounted through the roof or wall. Ducting is required to and from the unit and for rooms. This is less common for residential use.
- Split-system units have outdoor and indoor components and are joined by refrigerant lines that connect the indoor coil to the outdoor unit.
- Mini-split units are like split-systems but they have more than one indoor coil connecting to the outdoor component. Others even have 3 indoor units. This type of central air conditioner is good for homes with additions because they don’t require ductwork. The indoor unit can be mounted on the ceiling, a wall, or the floor. Outdoor components are slimmer than standard split-systems. Note, however, that mini-split systems are typically less energy-efficient than split systems.
- Mini-duct units are central air conditioners that have indoor sections installed in the attic. The air is channeled through plastic pipes in wall inlets and outlets. They can be retrofitted in houses with hydronic or electric baseboard heating without ducts.
Heat pumps vs. Air Conditioners
In the last few years, many professionals recommend buying wall-mounted heat pumps instead of air conditioners. If you are wondering if this is good advice, in many cases, yes.
The major difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is that a heat pump can heat and cool your home while an air conditioner has no heating mode.
For consumers, a heat pump can save extra dollars each year!
- For instance, if your bedroom is located on the ground floor, a heat pump can significantly lower your energy bill in winter.
- Installing a heat pump in the middle of a common area can also save you as much as 35% on your energy use.
- The government also provides financial incentives to households that shift to energy efficient systems.
You can find many models of wall-mounted heat pumps so the big question is to find the right one for your home.
Top wall-mounted heat pumps and air conditioners (entry-level)
First of all, allow us to explain what entry-level heat pumps and air conditioners are. They offer heating solutions (-15 or -20 o Celsius) and are not ENERGY STAR qualified. Thus, they don’t qualify for government subsidies.
Before choosing a model, it is best to consult a professional. Heat pumps may seem more expensive at first but when you consider the subsidies that can reduce your energy bill and your monthly energy savings, you will save more over the long term.
TOSHIBA ZEPHYR WALL-MOUNTED HEAT PUMP/AIR CONDITIONER | |
| Powerful | 12,000 BTUs |
| Warranties | 10 years / compressor 10 years / parts 1 year / labor |
| SEER | 17 |
| Heating capacity | -20 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,200 |
DIR-12AC17DK FROM DIRECT AIR | |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor 10 years on parts 1 year on labor |
| BTU | 12,000 |
| SEER | 17.9 |
| Heating capacity | -20 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,300 |
Wall mounted heat pump / air conditioner | |
| Warranties | Parts = 10 years Compressor = 10 years Labor = 1 year |
| SEER | 16 |
| Heating capacity | -20 o Celsius |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,500 |
GREE LOMO | |
| Warranties | Parts + compressor + labor = 5 years |
| SEER | 16 |
| Heating capacity | -15 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,500 |
SAMSUNG QUANTUM | |
| Warranties | 10 years on compressor and parts 1 year on labor |
| Heating capacity | -20 o Celsius |
| SEER | 17 |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,700 |
Are you looking for solutions on how to properly cool your home?
Our partner contractors will be happy to offer you the most suitable options customized to your home and your budget.
Fill out the FREE form on this page to get up to 3 quotes from heating and cooling specialists in your area.
TOP 6 wall-mounted air conditioners / heat pumps - MEDIUM EFFICIENCY
What is a medium efficiency unit and how does it benefit you?
These wall-mounted air conditioners/heat pumps are ENERGY STAR qualified which means they qualify for government subsidies.
These models also offer innovative solutions at northern temperatures (between -20 and -25 o Celsius).
Such government incentives can help you to save a ton of money.
These medium efficiency units also offer additional warranties but they will increase the cost. The higher price will give you more value for your money and peace of mind for a long time.
GREE LOMO 23 (Air conditioner) | |
| Powerful | 12,000 BTU |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor 10 years on parts 10 years on labor |
| SEER | 23 |
| Heating capacity | -25 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,400 |
SAMSUNG SMART WHISPER | |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor 10 years on parts 1 year on labor |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 21 |
| Heating capacity | -20 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,500 |
Wall-mounted air conditioner / heat pump | |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor and parts 1 year on labor |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 22 |
| Heating capacity | -22 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,800 |
Wall-mounted heat pump / air conditioner | |
| Warranties | 5 years on labor and parts 10 years on the compressor |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 20 |
| Heating capacity | -25 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,950 |
Wall-mounted heat pump / air conditioner | |
| Heating capacity | -30 o Celsius |
| Model | DLCSRAH12AAK |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts 10 years on the compressor 1 year on labor |
| SEER | 21 |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,000 |
Wall-mounted heat pump / air conditioner | |
| Refrigerant | R-410A (chloride free) |
| Heating capacity | -20 o |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts 10 years on the compressor 10 years on labor With extended warranty |
| SEER | 21 |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $2,900 |
Are you interested in one of these heat pumps or have questions about them? You can speak to one of our partners (certified professionals in the field of air conditioning and heating)!
To do so, just fill out the form on this page. You can also receive up to 3 FREE quotes from our partner contractors to compare and find the best deal.
TOP 7 wall-mounted air conditioners / heat pumps:
HIGH EFFICIENCY
What are high efficiency wall-mounted air conditioner / heat pump and how do they benefit you?
This popular category includes the top-of-the-line products of various brands. These models of wall-mounted air conditioners/heat pumps will heat your home even during the coldest days of winter (from -25 o to -35 o C).
All of them are Energy Star qualified.
By choosing an air conditioner/heat pump in this category, you are guaranteed a high-quality unit that will save you money on your energy bill while keeping your home warm in winter time and cool in the summer.
HOW CAN I SAVE ON MY HEAT PUMP/AIR CONDITIONER?
Check out what grants or subsidies are available in your area.
Our partner contractors will also be happy to inform you of your options and potential rebates, if any are applicable.
Just fill out the form on this page to connect with top HVAC contractors near you.
What heat pumps and air conditioners do the pros recommend?
If you are looking for the highest performance in your heat pump or air conditioner, our reliable and experienced partners offer these premium units.
They may not be the cheapest on the market but they are definitely worth their price!
Wall-mounted heat pump | |
| Powerful | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 30.5 |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts 10 years on the compressor 10 years on labor |
| Heating capacity | -30 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,900 |
Wall-mounted air conditioner / heat pump | |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor and parts 1 year on labor |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 30.5 |
| Heating Capacity up to | -30 o C |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,500 |
Wall-mounted air conditioner / heat pump | |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts + compressor 1 year on the work 3 years = Replacement of the outdoor unit if the compressor or the outdoor coil is broken. |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 25 |
| Heating Capacity up to | -30 o C |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,700 |
Wall-Mounted Heat Pump / Air Conditioner | |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 1 year on labor |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 30.5 |
| Heating Capacity up to | -30 o C |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,500 |
Wall-mounted heat pump / air conditioner | |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Model | DLC PRAH12AAK |
| SEER | 30 |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 1 year on labor |
| Heating Capacity up to | -30 o Celsius |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,700 |
Wall-mounted heat pump/air conditioner | |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 25 |
| Capacity in winter | up to -25 o C |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 1 year on labor |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $4,000 |
Wall-mounted heat pump/air conditioner | |
| Power | 12,000 BTU |
| SEER | 23 |
| Heating capacity of up to: | -35 o C |
| Warranties | 10 years (compressor) 5 years (parts + labor) |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $3,200 |
We understand if you feel undecided about the right heat pump/air conditioner to buy. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming.
This is why it is best to contact a specialist who can evaluate your heating and cooling requirements and offer you the right solution.
Some homes have air conditioning or heating systems that are too powerful for their homes. In such cases, the rooms can have too high a temperature difference and a significant drying out.
Experienced pros can easily point you in the direct direction by recommending the right heating and cooling system for your home that fits your budget.
To get help, fill out the form on this page and receive FREE and NO COMMITMENT quotes from reliable contractors in your area.
BEST Wall-Mounted MULTI-ZONE Heat Pumps & Air Conditioners
What is a multi-zone unit? Simply put, a multi-zone heat pump consists of a single outdoor unit and several indoor units. This allows you to independently control the cooling or heating in each room.
It is ideal when you want to save on energy costs and increase the comfort level of your home.
If you’re not sure whether to choose a regular unit or a multi-zone unit, consult a professional to explain your options.
Heat Pump / Air Conditioner | |
| Power | 27,000 BTU |
| SEER | 21 |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 10 years on labor With extended warranty |
| Heating capacity up to | -25 o C |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $5,100 |
DIRECTAIR MULTIZONE (27 000 BTU) | |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor 5 years on parts and labor |
| Power | 27,000 BTU |
| Heating capacity | Up to -35 o C |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $6,300 |
Wall Mounted Heat Pump / Wall Mounted Air Conditioner | |
| Power | 24,000 BTU |
| Heating capacity | Up to -20 o C |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 1 year on labor |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $7,200 |
COMFORTMAKER MIDEA MULTIZONE 27 000 BTU | |
| Power | 27,000 BTU |
| Heating capacity | Up to -30 o C |
| Warranties | 10 years on the compressor 10 year on parts 1 year on labor |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $5,800 |
GREE MULTIZONE 24,000 BTU | |
| Power | 24,000 BTU |
| Heating capacity | Up to -20 o Celsius |
| Warranties | 5 years on parts, the compressor, and labor |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $6,200 |
Wall-mounted heat pump/ air conditioner – | |
| Power | 24,000 BTU |
| Heating capacity | Up to -30 o C |
| Warranties | 10 years on parts and the compressor 1 year on labor |
| Price (with installation) | Starts at $6,500 |
Many factors help to make a home airtight. Specialists usually recommend that you have your home insulation checked before installing an air-conditioning or heating system for maximum benefits.
You can connect with reliable contractors from our network using our short online form!
Get multiple quotes to compare free of charge and without any obligation!
WHAT AFFECTS THE COST OF AIR CONDITIONING INSTALLATION?
The cost of installing an air conditioner depends on several things. Central air conditioners need to be installed by a qualified professional. You cannot do it by yourself because refrigerants are dangerous to handle. Professionals have the appropriate licenses and training to ensure that your system is properly and safely installed.
The type of air conditioner (single-stage or 2-stage) also affects the cost.
The rates charged by HVAC contractors vary based on the complexity of the work and the time it takes to complete the job. Additional ductwork and materials will increase the cost.
The prices stated above for air conditioning systems and heat pumps include the cost of installation/labor to give you a good idea of what your budget should be.
Best heating and cooling system with free quotes
You can find an energy efficient and good quality air conditioner or heat pump in Ontario without wasting time going around stores or calling around.
We have professional contractors for heating and cooling systems serving Ottawa, Ottawa-Gatineau, Toronto, Markham, Brampton, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, and all throughout Ontario!
By filling out our online request form, you can get in touch with HVAC contractors to compare heat pumps and air conditioners on the market. These pros will assess your home’s requirements and give you tailored quotes to choose from.
They can also inform you of the pros and cons of these products so you can get the most value from your investment.
Fill out the form below to get FREE quotes within 48 hours and save time and money!
