HVAC / Split systems
Price a split-system air conditioner installation
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Split-system installation
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What it covers: Estimate the unit, installation materials, labour and optional extra work.
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How to price a split-system air conditioner installation
A split-system installation price is built from the unit, the standard installation materials, labour and any extra work the site needs. A short back-to-back install and a long pipe run to a roof are very different jobs, so list each part. Work on refrigerant and electrical connections must be done by appropriately licensed people where the law requires it.
- Choose the installation type and enter the number of systems, counting each indoor and outdoor pair as one.
- Enter your price to supply one system, and your standard installation materials for each system, such as basic pipe, cable and fittings.
- Estimate the total installation hours and enter your hourly labour rate.
- Add extra pipework beyond the standard materials as one charge. Measure the run between the indoor and outdoor units first so you can price it accurately.
- Add electrical work, bracket or mounting, old unit removal, difficult access, commissioning and after-hours charges if they apply.
- Set your materials markup and tax rate, choose whether prices show before or including tax, and check the totals.
Tips and common mistakes
- Decide what your standard installation includes, such as a set pipe length, and charge extra pipework only beyond that. Do not count the same pipe twice.
- Check where the outdoor unit will go. Roofs, high walls and tight spaces add time and may need extra mounting.
- Check the power supply. A new circuit or switchboard work may need an electrician and should be priced as electrical work.
- Enter your own labour cost per hour to see your profit. It never appears on the estimate.
Questions
How much does it cost to install a split-system air conditioner?
It depends on the unit, the length of pipe run, where the units are mounted, the electrical work needed and how long the install takes. Back-to-back installs are usually the simplest, while long runs or roof mounting cost more. Use the calculator with your own prices and rates.
What is a back-to-back air conditioner installation?
It is where the indoor and outdoor units sit on opposite sides of the same wall, so the pipe run is short. It is usually the simplest type of install. Longer runs, upper floors or roof mounting add materials and time.
Do you need a licence to install air conditioning?
In many places, handling refrigerant and making electrical connections need licences or certificates. The rules differ around the world, so check the rules where you work. If you use another trade for part of the job, add their price to the quote.
How long does a split-system installation take?
It depends on the pipe run, access, mounting and whether electrical work is needed. A back-to-back install on a ground floor is usually quicker than a long run to a roof. Track your own job times so your estimates improve.
Should I charge extra for a longer pipe run?
Yes, if it goes beyond what your standard installation includes. Longer runs need more pipe, cable and insulation, and more labour. Measure the run, price the extra length and add it as extra pipework.
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