Many of our customers with old or outdated air conditioning systems are waiting for the perfect moment to strike and purchase a new system. It makes sense–the market is volatile right now with efficiency standards changing, refrigerants changing, and even company policies changing. Depending on the specific manufacturer you’re looking at, the price might change by several percentage points just in the next few months.
So, when is the best time to invest in an AC installation in Tampa? We’d argue right now.
But don’t just take our word for it. Let the data and some of the important industry moments that are steadily approaching convince you. Just make sure you work with our team to get the most affordable pricing available and to use our Beating Uncle Sam discount which could give up to $2,500 off a new purchase via tax credits and gift cards.
The Rules Have Changed
Efficiency standards have changed in the past few years and we’re still feeling the effects of it. First, we had supply chain disruptions during COVID which caused prices to skyrocket for many HVAC systems that depended on crucial infrastructure.
Then, we had regulation changes that stopped the creation and distribution of Freon, or as the industry has called it, R-22. With that legislation came even more changes with an updated SEER2 rating that changed the industry standards for what qualified as an “efficient” air conditioner and what didn’t.
So, long story short, the rules of the game have changed. What constitutes an efficient ENERGY STAR-certified system is different, and our customers need to acclimate to these changes. The good news is that our team will work with you to find a system that fits your budget, while also being classified as high-efficiency. There’s a solution to this problem, and it’s working with a team you can trust going forward.
Upcoming Refrigerant Changes
That was the past, now we need to talk about the future!
In January of 2025, there’s going to be a new refrigerant phase-out that will take place–mainly for the R-410A that replaced Freon. This refrigerant is just outdated and not as good for the environment or efficiency standards as newer ones. Effective January 2026, systems that use this kind of refrigerant won’t be sold anymore, and the prices will likely increase for a new, high-efficiency AC system.
This means that prices are expected to rise now, and customers will be left paying a few percentage points more for a system than they were this year. The good news is that we can see this coming.
So, When Is the Best Time for an Upgrade?
Ultimately, the best time for an AC upgrade is right now. This moment is perfect since it’s after past changes that we can’t do anything about (and the supply chain has finally settled after COVID), but it’s also before some new sweeping changes that will likely cause prices to jump again.
Schedule an appointment with The A/C Guy of Tampa Bay Inc. to get the benefits of a high-efficiency system, without the huge cost burden.