As an HVAC expert, I am often asked about the best time to install an air conditioner. And my answer is always the same - fall or spring. These seasons are not only the best times to buy air conditioners, but also the most convenient for installation. Let me explain why. Firstly, during summer, air conditioners tend to break down due to the high demand and usage.
This leads to HVAC professionals being overwhelmed with service calls and repair emergencies. As a result, it becomes difficult to schedule discretionary tasks like replacing an old air conditioner with a new one. The same goes for winter, when HVAC technicians are busy with furnace repairs. Therefore, the ideal time to schedule an air conditioner installation is in spring or fall. Not only will this be convenient for you, but it will also be appreciated by your technicians who will have more time to focus on your specific concerns.
In most parts of the country, including North Carolina where I am based, the HVAC business is highly seasonal. The graph below shows the general pattern of business activity depending on weather conditions. During spring and early fall, when business is at its slowest, manufacturers offer special deals and discounts to boost sales. This means that HVAC contractors are more aggressive with their pricing in order to keep their crews busy. This is a great opportunity for homeowners who may only need to replace their air conditioner or heating system instead of the entire HVAC unit, resulting in significant cost savings. If you find yourself constantly calling your HVAC technician for repairs, it may be time to stop spending money on endless fixes and replace your system altogether.
And since HVAC companies are not as busy during off-season months, they often offer discounts on installation fees as well. But don't wait until your HVAC system breaks down to replace it. If you live in a place like Las Vegas where summers can be scorching hot, or in a cold climate where winters are harsh, you don't want to be left without air conditioning or heating. Take advantage of the slower business season and plan ahead to replace your system. If you're planning a home renovation project, it's the perfect time to consider replacing your HVAC system. Winter and summer are when homes use their air conditioning systems the most, and HVAC companies are busiest with new installations, maintenance, and repairs.
So if you're wondering when is the best time to buy an HVAC system, the answer is during the off-season.
