Exploring the Cost of a 5-ton Air Conditioner

Does the thought of buying a new air conditioner leave you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about where to start? Determining the correct size AC unit is a good first step.

Although some might believe that air conditioners work the same for every household, the truth is, each home needs a cooling system tailored to its specific needs. A correctly sized AC, measured in tonnage, will ensure your home stays comfortable all summer long.

One common air conditioner size is a 5-ton unit. HVAC.com, your trusted advisor for all things HVAC, explains the cost of a 5-ton AC system and what homes generally need this size.

Why Does the Size of an AC Matter?

More so than even the brand or the efficiency level, choosing the correct size air conditioner is, perhaps, the most crucial decision in the entire buying process. An air conditioner that’s too small might struggle to keep your home cool enough, while a unit that’s too big could waste energy. Making sure you get the right size ensures your AC runs smoothly and efficiently.

Working with a subpar HVAC contractor who incorrectly pairs you with the wrong-size air conditioner can lead to a big headache. The only real recourse to this problem is replacing the entire air conditioner with one that is correctly sized for your space. You’ll obviously want to avoid this at all costs.

What Homes Require a 5-Ton Air Conditioner?

A 5-ton air central air conditioner has a cooling capacity of about 60,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) and is typically installed in larger homes about 2,600 to 3,200 square feet in size.

However, this is just a general guideline, as the home’s square footage is just one factor (albeit a large one) in determining the correct size air conditioner. Other factors include:

• Where you live
• How many windows your home has
• How high your ceilings are
• How well your home is insulated

Average Cost of a 5-ton AC

Living in a bigger house means you’ll need a larger capacity air conditioner which costs more than smaller 2-ton, 3-ton, or 4-ton systems.

Expect to pay about $6,750 for a new, 5-ton air conditioning system with a range of $4,300 to $8,800.

Some of the main factors that may influence the final cost of a 5-ton AC include:

• Brand. Highly regarded models cost more upfront but may offer better reliability, efficiency, and a more robust warranty than lesser-known brands.
• Efficiency level. More efficient central air conditioners come with higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) ratings. The higher the SEER rating, the more money you’ll pay for a new unit.
• HVAC add-ons. Your HVAC contractor may present you with a laundry-list of optional features, including smart thermostats and air purifications systems. Weigh these additional add-ons carefully based on your home comfort needs and budget.
• Installation requirements. The need for electrical upgrades, new ductwork, or permits can also factor into the total costs.
• Region. Where you live can also play a role in how much you’ll pay for a 5-ton AC. You’ll pay less in rural regions compared to large cities.
• Compressor type. Two-stage and variable-speed compressors are more efficient and provide increased comfort, but often cost more than a single-stage unit that operates at 100% whenever it operates.