💵 What Will a New HVAC System Cost?
Estimate the installed replacement cost of a new central AC, heat pump, gas furnace, full system, or mini-split in the US. Adjust for size, efficiency, add-ons (ductwork, removal, permits) and your region to get a realistic price range — before you call a contractor.
🛠️1. System Type
Pick the system you are replacing. "AC + Furnace" is a full split-system swap (both units at once).
📏2. System Size
Range: 1.5 – 5 Tons (cooling). A typical home is 2–3.5 tons.
⚡3. Efficiency Tier
Higher efficiency (SEER2 / AFUE) costs more up front but lowers running bills. Premium tiers are usually variable-speed / inverter.
📍4. Region
Labor rates vary a lot by metro. This scales the estimate to your area; pick National for a baseline.
➕Add-ons & extras (ductwork, removal, permits) — optional
HVAC & AC Replacement Cost by System Type (2026 US Averages)
Use this quick-reference table for typical installed replacement costs in the US, at standard efficiency for an average-size home. Then use the calculator above to adjust for your exact size, efficiency tier, add-ons and region.
| System Type | Typical Installed Cost | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Central Air Conditioner | $4,700 – $8,000 | Condenser + evaporator coil + install |
| Heat Pump | $5,500 – $9,500 | Heating + cooling in one system |
| Gas Furnace | $3,900 – $7,000 | Furnace unit + install (heating only) |
| Full System (AC + Furnace) | $8,500 – $15,000 | New AC + new furnace together |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $3,400 – $8,000 | Single zone to multi-zone |
Ranges are US national averages for 2026 and include equipment + standard labor. New ductwork, removal of the old system, electrical upgrades, permits, and premium high-efficiency equipment push costs toward — or above — the top of each range. High-cost metros (SF, NYC, Boston) run 20–40% higher; the low-cost South runs below.
What Drives Your HVAC Replacement Cost
Five factors move the price the most. The calculator above accounts for all of them.
1. System Type & Whether It's a Full Swap
Replacing just the AC condenser is the cheapest job; a full system (new AC and new furnace / air handler together) is the most expensive but often the best value because the two units are matched and installed in one visit. Heat pumps cost a bit more than a comparable AC because they also provide heating.
2. Size (Tonnage / BTU)
Bigger equipment costs more. AC and heat pumps are sized in tons (1.5–5 for homes); furnaces in BTU (40,000–120,000). Size the system correctly first — an oversized unit costs more and performs worse. Use our AC Tonnage Calculator and Furnace Size Calculator.
3. Efficiency (SEER2 / AFUE)
A standard 14–15 SEER2 AC or 80% AFUE furnace is the baseline. High-efficiency (16–18 SEER2 / 90–96% AFUE) adds roughly 20–25% to equipment cost; premium variable-speed systems add 45%+. The extra up-front cost is repaid through lower energy bills and may qualify for rebates or tax credits.
4. Add-ons: Ductwork, Removal, Electrical & Permits
These "extras" are where quotes diverge. New or repaired ductwork can add $2,000–$4,000. Old-system removal, electrical/breaker upgrades, a new line set, permits, and a smart thermostat each add a few hundred dollars. Tick the ones you need in the calculator's add-ons section.
5. Your Region & Labor Rates
Labor is often 40–50% of the total, and rates swing widely by metro. High-cost areas (San Francisco, New York, Boston, Seattle) run 20–40% above the national average; much of the South and Midwest runs below it. The region selector scales the estimate to your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace an AC unit in 2026?
How much does a full HVAC system replacement cost?
Is it cheaper to replace AC and furnace at the same time?
Why are HVAC replacement quotes so different?
Does a high-efficiency system pay for itself?
How long does a new AC or furnace last?
Are the prices in this calculator guaranteed?
Related tools from Refcon HVAC
- AC Tonnage Calculator
- Furnace Size Calculator
- Heat Pump Sizing & Savings Calculator
- AC Electricity Cost Calculator
Last updated: 2026. Maintained by the Refcon HVAC team. Figures are estimates — always confirm with local licensed contractors. Tell us about an error.
Estimates vary by contractor. Compare free quotes from licensed local pros before you commit. Request a quote →
High-efficiency systems may qualify for utility rebates and federal or state incentives. Find current programs at ENERGY STAR & DSIRE.
Figures are reviewed by the Refcon HVAC engineering team using U.S. DOE, ENERGY STAR & ACCA Manual J data. Estimates only — confirm with a licensed pro.