Natural gas air conditioning prices and overview

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According to an estimate made by the Department of Energy in 2011, natural gas is one of the lowest-priced conventional residential energy sources available. Similarly, natural gas air conditioning is one of the cheapest methods available to cool your house, especially when it's used with an energy-efficient AC unit.

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Perhaps you're wondering, what is natural gas? It's a colorless, odorless, shapeless and clean burning energy source that is used across the nation for heating, cooking and more.

If you have a gas stove, you'll likely be familiar with the smell that it gives off when you turn it on. How can this be, when natural gas is odorless? A chemical called mercaptan is added to the gas in order to help detect leaks.

Electricity is one of the most expensive energy sources commonly used by households, so switching to a natural gas air conditioner can save you a lot of money on your utility bills.

A natural gas AC is commonly paired with a forced-air furnace to make a complete HVAC system.

There are a variety of natural gas air conditioning systems available on the market, and prices vary. You can expect to pay low- to mid-four figures for your natural gas air conditioning unit, not counting installation.

When comparing natural gas air conditioning units, you will want to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. This number will range from 13 to about 22. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit and the less you should expect to spend on your utility bill.

Due to federal regulations, the lowest acceptable rating is 13 SEER. You shouldn't see a unit with a lower rating.

The final step is to hire a contractor to install the air conditioner. This is important as it's dangerous to do the work yourself. It's also often a requirement for the warranty to be valid.

Air conditioners are expensive, so don't take a chance and lose your protection against failing parts. Shop around and get estimates from multiple installers, and choose the one you feel most comfortable with. The cheapest price may not be the best option if you don't feel the work will be adequate.

Energy is expensive. The cost really adds up every month if you use your air conditioner and heater often. Natural gas is the cheapest energy resource available to the average household. It can be beneficial to take advantage of this and use it to power your HVAC system.

Pair your natural gas air conditioning unit with a gas-powered furnace, and let the savings on your monthly utility bills help offset the initial cost of your appliances.

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