Best Time of Year to Buy an AC: Save Big on Comfort

Timing is everything when buying an hvac system or air conditioners. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by buying at the right time.

People buy AC units when they need them most. That’s usually in the middle of a hot summer, when their old system gives out. Unfortunately, this is the worst time for your wallet if you want to save money.

This guide will show you the best months to buy an air conditioner. We talk about seasonal pricing trends, the money-saving benefits of bundling and some expert insights to get you started. You will discover the best deals on central cooling system installations, portable units, and more.

Best Month to Buy a New Air Conditioner for Maximum Savings

1. Fall / End of Summer

Fall offers the best combination of selection and savings for AC purchases. Retailers want to clear summer inventory, including new ac units, before winter arrives. There are often manufacturer rebates available during the fall months. When combined with tax credits and retailer discounts, you can find some great deals on premium models.

2. Winter

The largest discounts on air conditioners come in the winter. Demand hits its lowest point during cold months. December through February offers low prices on cooling equipment. Stores have inventory from fall to clear, which helps reduce energy costs, and often offer aggressive discounts.

3. Early Spring

Early spring provides the last opportunity for off-season savings. Prices start rising as temperatures warm up. March through early May still offers good deals before peak season begins. Retailers receive new inventory but haven't started charging premium prices yet.

Spring is also a good time if you want your ac installation right away. It’s warm enough for hvac professional installation work, and you’ll have your system in place before the season’s first heat wave.

Benefits of Buying an AC During the Off-Season

Lower Purchase Prices: You can pay 20-40% less during the off-season for an AC conditioner because that is when you will find some of your lowest and best prices. Retailers mark down to empty shelves in preparation for the peak summer season and to make room for next season’s products.

Better Selection: More models and brands are available in the off-season months. You can take the time to do your homework, and shop around without the pressure of needing immediate relief from the heat.

Improved Installation Scheduling: HVAC guys have more time in the off months. You get a more convenient time for installations, and better service from installers not in a rush.

Manufacturer Rebates and Incentives: Manufacturers often have rebates, extended warranties, and financing offers in slow months. Some of these offers can save you hundreds of dollars over and above retail discounts.

No Emergency Purchase Pressure: Off-season shopping eliminates the stress of emergency replacement decisions. When shopping for a new hvac system, you can research thoroughly, compare prices, and negotiate better deals without time constraints.

Access to Previous Year's Models: Past year models are tried and true reliability at clearance prices. You'll get great bang for your buck with these models while they are still being unloaded to a willing market in order to make room on showroom floors for new systems.

Better Contractor Availability: Qualified installers have more time for proper installation and setup. You'll receive better service quality and attention to detail during their slower business periods.

Financing Options: During off time, a potential buyer can obtain more favorable financing terms from both lenders and retailers. Low financing rates as well as longer pay plans can make good quality systems inexpensive.

Tips to Maximize Savings When Buying an AC

Begin your research several months in advance of when you need any new system to be in place. Finding different types of air conditioners makes shopping for a good deal easier. Review of home ac alternatives to central systems with wall mounted air conditioner units.

Plan a realistic budget with installation costs. Factor in the cost of electrical work, permits, and air conditioner accessories like programmable thermostats. To maximize cost savings, otherwise, hidden fees can quickly add to your overall price.

Shop multiple stores for the best deals. Look for prices with the big box stores, local hvac store locations, and online retailers. And don’t forget to account for delivery costs and differences in warranties.

Consider energy efficiency ratings carefully. Higher SEER ratings come at a higher upfront cost, but save you money in the long term. Add up the costs, and estimate how much money your unit could save you in energy bills.

Seek company and utility rebates, too. In many areas of the country, you can get a rebate for some high-efficiency units. These programs can save you hundreds of dollars, depending on the equipment that qualifies.

Previous-generation models can frequently do just as much for a lot less. Just be sure to search model-to-model research for a summary of the differences so you can trust they’re worth it.

Bundle purchases when possible. Many hvac companies and contractors offer discounts to customers who buy all heating and cooling equipment together. Package savings are almost always available when getting your gas furnace upgraded at the same time.

Get several installation quotes from qualified contractors. Labor costs vary significantly between companies. Make sure the quotes are for all work and materials you need to make accurate comparisons.

Plan installation timing strategically. Schedule during contractors down time for better pricing and service. Don’t wait until the height of summer, when emergency calls take priority over installations.

Conclusion

The best time to buy air conditioner units is definitely during off-season months. Fall through early spring offers the deepest discounts and best selection.

Early fall and late summer offer the best balance of savings and choice. Winter is when you can find the highest discounts, but not the most options. Early spring offers good deals before prices increase.

Off-season shopping saves 20-40% compared to emergency summer purchases. You'll also enjoy increased system availability, better installation service, and more time to make informed decisions.

Plan ahead for maximum savings. Research during slow periods and sell when prices are low. Your wallet will thank you when summer heat arrives.

Don’t forget to consider the total costs such as installation and accessories. The least expensive is not always the best value if the installation costs are too high.

Get a jump on things early and shop around when prices tend to be lowest. Timing can be everything when it comes to smart ways to save big on great cooling equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions