FAQs

• 1. Are there any available financing or payment plans for window air conditioners?

  At Conn's HomePlus, we understand that investing in a new window air conditioner can be a significant expense. That's why we offer a variety of financing and payment plans to help make your purchase more manageable. Whether you're looking to pay over time or take advantage of special deals, we have options to suit your budget and financial needs. To find out more, visit our financing page and check out our latest financing offers.

• 2. How much does a window air conditioner cost, on average?

  The price range for window air conditioners typically falls between $250 and $1,000. This broad range reflects differences in several key features that can affect pricing, including:

  • Cooling capacity: The BTU (British Thermal Units) rating of a window air conditioner largely determines its price. Units designed to cool larger spaces, which require higher BTU ratings, will generally be more expensive. For instance, a unit with a capacity to cool a small room may be at the lower end of the price spectrum, while one suitable for a large living space will be priced higher.

  • Energy efficiency: Models with higher Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) or those that are Energy Star certified often cost more upfront but can lead to significant savings on energy bills. Investing in an energy-efficient model can be more cost-effective in the long run.

  • Smart features: Modern window air conditioners may include smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to control the unit with your smartphone or integrate it with other smart home systems. These advanced features add to the cost but offer greater convenience and control over your cooling.

  • Noise reduction technology: Some higher-priced models come equipped with advanced noise reduction technologies. These units are ideal for bedrooms and other quiet spaces, as they operate more quietly compared to standard models.

  • Design and build quality: Premium materials and a sleek design can also influence the cost of a window air conditioner. Units designed to be more aesthetically pleasing or those made from superior materials typically command a higher price.

• 3. What are the costs associated with running a window air conditioner unit?

  The ongoing costs of running a window air conditioner depend on several factors, including the unit's energy efficiency, the local cost of electricity, how often you use the AC, and the climate in your area.

  • Energy efficiency: Units with higher Energy Efficiency Ratios (EER) or those that are ENERGY STAR® certified typically use less electricity. This means they are less costly to operate compared to less efficient models. The higher the EER rating, the more you save on energy costs.

  • Electricity rates: Your local electricity cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a crucial factor in determining your AC's running costs. You can calculate the cost by multiplying the AC's wattage by the number of hours you use it, divided by 1,000, then multiplied by your local kWh rate.

  • Usage: How often and how long you run your air conditioner significantly affects your monthly utility bills. Frequent use during hotter months will naturally lead to higher costs.

  • Climate: The local climate can also impact how hard your unit has to work. In hotter, more humid climates, air conditioners typically consume more energy to maintain cool and comfortable indoor temperatures.

  • Maintenance:Proper maintenance can affect operational costs too. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters, ensuring the unit is free from obstructions, and having periodic professional checks can keep your AC running efficiently, thus lowering energy consumption.

  To illustrate, consider a 10,000 BTU window air conditioner with an EER of 10. If you run this unit for eight hours a day for three months in an area where electricity costs 12 cents per kWh, the calculation would look like this:

  • Wattage of the AC unit: 10,000 BTU / EER 10 = 1,000 watts or 1 kW

  • Daily energy consumption: 1 kW * 8 hours = 8 kWh per day

  • Seasonal energy consumption: 8 kWh * 90 days = 720 kWh for the season

  • Cost to operate: 720 kWh * $0.12/kWh = $86.40 for the season

• 4. How much does installation cost for a window air conditioner?

  Window AC installation requires a separately scheduled appointment (after delivery) and fee. Pricing varies, so contact your local Conn’s HomePlus store to find out or call (877) 358-1252 for online orders.
  
  

  Our installation service includes:

  • Standard, first floor window installation

  • Installation and leveling of the new unit

  • Testing and a demonstration of basic functions

• 5. How does the energy efficiency of a window air conditioner affect my utility bills?

  Generally, the higher the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), the less electricity the unit uses to cool your space, which translates directly into savings on your utility bills.

  • Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): This is the ratio of the cooling capacity (in BTUs) to the power input (in watts). The higher the EER, the more efficient the air conditioner.

  • Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This ratio measures the efficiency over an entire cooling season, rather than at a specific operating temperature.

  Let’s work out the numbers for two different models to illustrate. Model A has an EER of 8, while Model B has an EER of 12. Assume each AC runs for eight hours a day during the peak summer months (90 days total), and the local electricity rate is $0.15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

  Power consumption per day (cooling capacity ÷ EER)

  Model A: 10,000 BTU ÷ 8 EER = 1250 watts = 1.25 kWh

  Model B: 10,000 BTU ÷ 12 EER = 833 watts = 0.833 kWh

  Daily energy consumption

  Model A: 1.25 kWh × 8 hours = 10 kWh

  Model B: 0.833 kWh × 8 hours = 6.66 kWh

  Seasonal energy consumption

  Model A: 10 kWh × 90 days = 900 kWh

  Model B: 6.66 kWh × 90 days = 599.4 kWh

  Cost of operation

  Model A: 900 kWh × $0.15/kWh = $135

  Model B: 599.4 kWh × $0.15/kWh = $89.91

  Over the course of the summer, switching from Model A to Model B would save about $45.09 in electricity costs. While Model B might cost more upfront, the savings in utility bills can offset this over time, especially in regions where the air conditioner is used extensively.

• 6. Are there any incentives or rebates available for window air conditioners?

  Yes, there are incentives or rebates available for purchasing energy-efficient window air conditioners, which can help reduce the initial cost and encourage consumers to choose models that will save energy and money in the long run.

  • ENERGY STAR rebates: Many utility companies offer rebates for buying ENERGY STAR certified air conditioners. These units meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Rebates can vary by location and utility provider but can significantly lower the cost of a new energy-efficient air conditioner.

  • State and local incentives: Some states, municipalities, or local energy providers offer additional incentives or rebates for energy-efficient appliance purchases. These can be tax credits, direct rebates, or other financial incentives.

  • Manufacturer rebates: Occasionally, manufacturers of air conditioners offer rebates on specific models as part of promotional campaigns. These rebates are usually available directly from the manufacturer or through authorized retailers.

  • Federal tax credits:While less common for window air conditioners specifically, there are sometimes federal tax credits available for energy-efficient appliances. It’s worth checking current tax laws to see if your purchase might qualify.

  To find out what incentives or rebates are available in your area, you can visit the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder. Additionally, check with your local utility company, the appliance manufacturer, or a trusted retailer like Conn's HomePlus.

• 7. What is the lifespan of a window air conditioner?

  The lifespan of a window air conditioner typically ranges between 10 to 15 years, but there are several factors to take into consideration:

  • Quality of the unit: Higher quality models tend to last longer due to better construction and more durable components.

  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing filters and ensuring the condenser coils are clean, significantly extends the life of the unit.

  • Installation: Proper installation is crucial; improper setup can lead to inefficiencies and increased stress on the air conditioner.

  • Climate: Air conditioners in milder climates generally last longer than those in very hot areas because they undergo less strain.

  As always, sticking to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and usage can help your appliance run stronger for longer.

• 8. How much can be saved by installing a window air conditioner instead of central air conditioning?

  Choosing to install a window AC instead of a central air conditioning system can lead to significant cost savings, both in terms of initial investment and ongoing expenses. Here’s a breakdown of how these savings can be achieved:

  • Initial cost: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a window air conditioner is considerably lower than that of a central air system. While a window unit might cost anywhere from $250 to $1,000, a central air system can range from $3,500 to more than $7,000, including installation.

  • Operating costs: Window air conditioners are generally less expensive to operate than central air systems, particularly if you only need to cool one or two rooms. The ability to cool only specific areas rather than the entire home allows for more controlled and thus reduced energy usage.

  • Maintenance costs: Maintenance for window air conditioners is typically simpler and less expensive than for central air systems. Window units can often be maintained primarily by the homeowner, involving tasks like cleaning filters and ensuring the unit is free from obstructions. In contrast, central air systems often require professional servicing for tasks like duct cleaning and more complex system checks.

  • Energy efficiency: Although modern central air systems are designed to be energy-efficient, the cost-effectiveness of cooling only the needed spaces with window units can result in lower overall energy consumption. This targeted use reduces wasteful cooling of unoccupied spaces.

  • Flexibility: Window ACs offer the flexibility to be removed or reinstalled in different windows as needed, which is a cost-effective feature if you move homes or want to change the cooling focus between seasons.

  If you need to cool smaller spaces or specific areas of a home, window air conditioners represent a financially savvy choice without the extensive commitment of a central air system.

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