As Temps Rise, So Does the Cost of Staying Cool
By: Nora Hartfeil
Updated: June 30, 2012
"With freon going up, air conditioners themselves are starting to go up in price, we are seeing a slight increase in that", says Joel Tobey of Lowes Home Improvement.
While some will shy away from AC shopping due to the price increase, shoppers like Ava Jo White are making sure she makes her purchase soon. "We are here to purchase a unit today because of the freon that will be going up probably within six months to a year, so we want to save our money just like everybody else", says White.
And the reason for the bump in price? Experts say it's simple economics. "Right now, it really depends on supply and demand. It depends on the market, and how people are buying. Prices on air conditioners by fall and even going into next spring, could go up anywhere from twenty to fifty percent", Tobey tells us.
However, appliance stores will continue to sell AC units. And unfortunately, forecasts show that as the temperatures continue to rise, so will the cost of staying cool.
This increase in price will be gradual. But experts say a pound of freon that sold for $33 last year is now going for around $70. Their biggest piece of advice: make your AC purchase sooner than later.


