How much would you spend on AC replacement for a rental house? (renters, credit)

[LearningTheRopes]

Looks like we will have to replace the air conditioning at the house that we are renting out. We are looking at buying a 3.5 ton AC. What would be a good price for the AC and installation? It will have to be all electric.

[Prey521]

Why are you responsible for the AC unit at a rental? I've lived in rentals where the AC broke down and had never once been responsible for its repair or replacement.

[Clever nickname here]

Originally Posted by Prey521

Why are you responsible for the AC unit at a rental? I've lived in rentals where the AC broke down and had never once been responsible for its repair or replacement.

I think he is the owner and rentee not the renter.

[JanND]

Originally Posted by LearningTheRopes

Looks like we will have to replace the air conditioning at the house that we are renting out. We are looking at buying a 3.5 ton AC. What would be a good price for the AC and installation? It will have to be all electric.

That sounds huge, must be a mansion.
I'd start calling and getting estimates. Also, check on major energy efficient rebates at your utility co., as well as the online websites of any of the brands you're considering.
https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits
angies list installation costs https://www.angieslist.com/articles/...ew-ac-cost.htm

[kickingprop]

Also take into consideration how long you plan to own this rental property...If you plan to keep it for the long term and it's a reasonably nice house that can attract quality tenants, you might be better served to get a slightly better quality unit as it will likely save you $$$/hassle over time versus buying the cheapest you can.

On the other hand, if you dont expect to own this property 5yrs from now, go cheap as the only thing most buyers ever look at is the age of the unit, not the quality...

[LearningTheRopes]

I own the house and have renters living in it. I would like to keep this property to live in my retirement years. How do I compare bids? House is about 45 years old but in very good condition. Some contractors are saying I should replace the duct work and others say I don't have to. Has anyone compared AC replacement cost from Home Depot vs. small businesses? Home depot has zero percent finance option for one year.

[Prey521]

Ah OK, I misunderstood, thanks for the clarification LOL

[jalam321]

Have you gotten any estimates? My parents are actually looking to replace their old AC unit. They also need a 3.5 ton unit. I have seen prices from $7000 - $10,000. I was curious and wanting to compare to what have you found?

[LearningTheRopes]

The lowest I have gotten is $4000.

[rogerhe]

I'll never forget the time that an AC guy told me that my AC was so old (>20 years) that it obviously needed to be replaced and that my duct work was too small, so it needed to be replaced or an AC wouldn't last long. I got a real kick out of that.