How to Retrofit Air Conditioning in Your Home (Even When You Think It’s Not Possible)

For homeowners without the privilege of central air conditioning, the summer months can get pretty toasty. If you’ve had about all you can bear of window units and fans, it’s time to consider retrofitting AC in your home.

Ductwork or no ductwork, central air is within reach—and it’s maybe even a bit gentler on your wallet than you may think. Here’s what to do if you’re thinking about installing air conditioning in your home.

How Much Does it Cost to Install Central Air?

It costs between $3,800 and $7,500 to install central air. Costs vary depending on the size of your home and the type of air conditioning unit. When installing central air, it’s a good idea to consider updating your heating system at the same time, since it will be cheaper than doing it separately.

It typically takes between one and five days to install central air. The process is quicker if you already have ductwork in place.

Air Conditioning Options for Homes Without Ductwork

If you don’t want to go to the trouble of installing ductwork throughout your home, you might consider a ductless AC or mini-split system. A ductless AC consists of an outdoor compressor and wall units mounted in rooms of your choosing. It’s a good choice for structures whose walls are too thin to support ductwork or for individual rooms that need extra cooling, such as a recent addition.

Ventless Portable AC Units

If you’re not ready to splurge for central air, other air conditioning options are available. Window units are a great choice for only cooling certain rooms, like bedrooms or offices. Ventless portable air conditioners are another option worth considering.

Ductless Mini Split Systems

Mini split systems are often chosen for their small size and flexibility to cool individual zones of your home. They have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit (just like central air, only smaller in size) connected by a conduit made up of necessary cables and tubes. 

Mini splits are one of the easiest cooling systems to install, and since they’re ductless, they don’t lose the energy you may waste through a system of ducts throughout an entire house. A ductless mini split system will last for about 20 years and cost between $1,200 and $17,000, depending on how many units you need.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC Solution

When choosing an air conditioner, things to keep in mind include size, cost, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). You should also decide between a mini-split system and a whole home central air system.

• Size: The larger your home is, the larger the AC unit you’ll need to keep it cool throughout. Air conditioning units are measured in tons, which refers to the amount of heat they remove per hour.

• Cost: Mini-split or ductless air conditioning units are more energy efficient, which results in lower utility bills, but they tend to be more expensive to install than central air.

• SEER: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures how efficient an air conditioning system is. Energy efficient system can help save you money. To further save on energy costs, you should get your air conditioner serviced, change the filters regularly, and utilize window and shade coverings to lower the temperature in your home.

• Maintenance: No matter what kind of air conditioning system you choose, it’s a good idea to address any problems with your air conditioner as soon as they arise. Proper preventative maintenance can help to prolong your AC’s life for as long as possible.

Can I Retrofit Air Conditioning Myself?

In general, it’s not a good idea for homeowners to install central air themselves. The process of installing ductwork can be complicated and labor-intensive, so it’s best to get a heating and cooling company near you involved to discuss your options.

DIY AC Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Air conditioning installation is often best left to a professional because it comes with a number of components that need to be wired properly in order to function. That said, installing a window unit air conditioner is something most handy DIYers can take care of themselves without a call to a local pro. 

You can expect the cost of professional AC installation to be anywhere between $3,885 and $7,950. It all depends on the size and type of system you need installed. 

Margaret Wack contributed to this article.