The cost of replacing an HVAC system typically ranges from $6,000 to $13,200, which includes both a new furnace and air conditioning unit. If you’re installing a complete HVAC system along with ductwork, the total cost can be between $8,400 and $19,200. Several factors influence the price of HVAC units, including the size of the home, the length of the ductwork, and the size, type, and brand of the HVAC system itself.
Replacement Type | Average Cost Installed |
HVAC Replacement | $6,000 – $13,200 |
HVAC Installation with Ductwork | $8,400 – $19,200 |
HVAC System with Ductwork & Add-Ons | $11,400 – $22,200 |
Average HVAC Replacement Cost
The following table shows the average cost to replace an HVAC system.
Description | Cost |
National Average Cost | $9,600 |
Minimum Cost | $3,000 |
Maximum Cost | $22,200 |
Average Cost Range | $6,000 to $13,200 |
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Cost to Replace HVAC System by Unit
HVAC Unit | Average Cost to Replace |
Central Air Conditioner | $3,000 – $9,000 |
Ductless Mini-Split HVAC | $3,600 – $12,000 |
Furnace | $2,400 – $6,480 |
Heat Pump | $4,560 – $9,840 |
Geothermal Heat Pump | $18,000 – $42,000 |
Boiler | $2,640 – $12,000 |
Baseboard Heater (each) | $480 – $1,440 |
Radiant Floor Heating | $1,800 – $7,200 |
Whole-House Fan | $720 – $2,760 |
Window AC Unit | $360 – $1,320 |
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Factor | Average Cost |
HVAC Unit | $4,800 – $9,600 |
Installation Labor | $1,200 – $3,600 |
Total Cost Installed | $6,000 – $13,200 |
- An HVAC change-out costs $6,000 to $13,200 and involves replacing the main components without installing new ductwork. A change-out typically takes 1 day. Only opt for a change-out if the ductwork is in excellent condition.
- An HVAC installation with ductwork costs $8,400 to $19,200 and takes 3 to 5 days. Ductwork lasts 10 to 20 years and typically needs repairs or replacement when upgrading the HVAC system.
- An HVAC installation with add-ons costs $11,400 to $22,200 and takes 4 to 7 days. Optional add-ons include a zoning system, whole-house humidifier, or UV light filter.
HVAC System Cost per Square Foot
An HVAC system costs $3.60 to $7.20 per square foot, including a new furnace, AC unit, and installation. Replacing an HVAC system for a 2,000 square foot house costs $7,200 to $14,400.
Average Cost to Install by House Size
House Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost to Install |
1,000 | $3,600 – $7,200 |
1,200 | $4,320 – $8,640 |
1,600 | $5,760 – $11,520 |
2,000 | $7,200 – $14,400 |
2,500 | $9,000 – $18,000 |
3,000 | $10,800 – $21,600 |
Residential HVAC Unit Cost per Ton
HVAC unit prices are $1,200 to $7,200 for the system alone. An average 3-ton HVAC unit costs $2,040 to $6,000.
Residential HVAC Unit Costs
Size | BTU | AC Unit Price | AC System Cost Installed |
1.5 Tons | 18,000 | $1,200 – $4,560 | $2,400 – $6,000 |
2 Tons | 24,000 | $1,440 – $4,800 | $3,000 – $6,600 |
2.5 Tons | 30,000 | $1,800 – $5,400 | $3,240 – $7,200 |
3 Tons | 36,000 | $2,040 – $6,000 | $3,600 – $7,800 |
3.5 Tons | 42,000 | $2,160 – $6,240 | $3,720 – $8,400 |
4 Tons | 48,000 | $2,400 – $6,600 | $4,200 – $9,000 |
5 Tons | 60,000 | $3,000 – $7,200 | $4,800 – $9,600 |
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HVAC System Prices by Brand
The following table shows HVAC prices by brand and type, not including installation:
Brand | AC Unit* | Furnace* | Heat Pump* |
Amana | $1,560 – $5,400 | $1,080 – $3,480 | $1,200 – $5,760 |
American Standard | $1,800 – $5,160 | $1,020 – $3,600 | $1,800 – $5,400 |
Bryant | $1,680 – $4,200 | $960 – $4,080 | $1,920 – $5,400 |
Carrier | $3,000 – $6,960 | $1,200 – $3,360 | $2,520 – $5,880 |
Coleman | $1,560 – $4,200 | $960 – $2,400 | $1,560 – $5,640 |
Goodman | $1,440 – $3,600 | $720 – $3,840 | $1,320 – $4,680 |
Heil | $1,680 – $3,600 | $2,040 – $2,640 | $1,440 – $5,640 |
Lennox | $1,920 – $6,720 | $1,680 – $9,000 | $2,640 – $6,840 |
Rheem / Ruud | $2,160 – $6,600 | $960 – $4,680 | $1,680 – $4,560 |
Trane | $1,920 – $6,960 | $1,440 – $4,080 | $2,160 – $5,040 |
York | $1,680 – $5,640 | $960 – $2,400 | $1,680 – $4,320 |
Cost to Install HVAC System with Ductwork
The cost to install an HVAC system with ductwork is now $8,400 to $19,200, depending on whether the system includes a separate furnace and AC unit or a combined heat pump.
Cost Breakdown for Installing HVAC System with Ductwork
Factor | Average Cost |
HVAC Unit | $4,800 – $9,600 |
Installation Labor | $1,200 – $3,600 |
Ductwork | $2,400 – $6,000 |
Total | $8,400 – $19,200 |
Additional Costs:
- Ductwork Replacement: Costs $1,680 to $6,720.
- Installing New Ductwork: Costs $2,880 to $7,920.
Most ducts require work when replacing HVAC systems older than 15 years or when upgrading to larger or higher-efficiency units.
Residential HVAC Cost for New Construction
For new construction, HVAC costs $2.10 to $3.00 per square foot, depending on the system size and type. New ductwork adds $2,400 to $6,000 to the cost. HVAC for new construction typically costs less than replacing an existing system since the walls are still open.
HVAC Unit Replacement Cost Factors
Several factors impact the replacement cost of HVAC systems:
- HVAC System Size: Larger BTU and ton sizes for AC units and furnaces typically come with a higher price tag.
- Efficiency and SEER Rating: High-efficiency models boasting higher SEER ratings are generally more expensive than standard efficiency units.
- Fuel Type: The connection requirements for furnaces and heat pumps vary based on whether the system is gas, oil, or electric-powered.
- Gas Furnace Replacement: Costs $2,400 to $6,240.
- Electric Furnace Replacement: Costs $2,280 to $6,720.
- Oil Furnace Replacement: Costs $3,000 to $7,200.
- Brand: Reputable brands like Lennox, Carrier, and Trane often have higher prices due to superior quality parts.
- Thermostat Installation: Costs range from $168 to $420.
- Permits:
- HVAC Replacement Permits: Cost $120 to $300.
- New HVAC Installations with Ductwork: Cost $300 to $1,800. Contractors typically include these fees in the overall estimate.
- Removing Old HVAC Equipment: This can cost between $120 to $240, depending on local disposal and Freon removal fees.
- Asbestos Removal:
- Interior Asbestos Removal: Costs $6 to $18 per square foot.
- Exterior Asbestos Removal: Costs $12 to $150 per square foot. Asbestos removal may be necessary in homes built before 1986.
- New Insulation: Costs $1.20 to $6 per square foot, depending on the type and location.
- HVAC Repairs: Average costs range from $180 to $540.
HVAC Labor Rates
The labor cost for installing an HVAC system is now between $1,200 and $3,600, depending on factors like home size, the type and size of the furnace and AC unit, and installation complexity. Labor rates typically range from $90 to $180 per hour.
Labor costs may increase for HVAC installations in hard-to-access areas, such as rooftops, tight crawl spaces, and attics.
Cost of Adding Zones to HVAC
Adding zones to an HVAC system ranges from $2,400 to $7,800, depending on the number of zones, features, brand, and thermostat type. A zoning system uses sensors throughout the home and motorized dampers in the ducts to create separate temperature zones, enhancing comfort and efficiency.
Costs to Upgrade an HVAC System
Upgrading your HVAC system comes with various options to enhance efficiency, comfort, and air quality:
- Two-stage or variable speed motor: These motors cost more than single-stage models but are quieter, more energy-efficient, and regulate temperature better.
- Whole-house humidifier: Costs $480 to $1,440 installed.
- Whole-house dehumidifier: Costs $1,800 to $4,200 installed.
- Whole-house air purifier: Costs $480 to $4,800 installed.
- Ultraviolet (UV) light filter: Costs $480 to $960 installed. UV filters are great for eliminating mold and germs but ineffective against dust, allergens, gases, and smoke.
High-Efficiency HVAC Prices by SEER
HVAC systems have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ranging from 13 to 26. Higher SEER-rated systems are more expensive but reduce energy costs over time.
HVAC Efficiency | AC Unit Prices | Efficiency |
13 – 14 SEER | $1,200 – $5,040 | Standard efficiency |
15 – 16 SEER | $1,800 – $6,840 | High efficiency |
17 – 18 SEER | $2,160 – $7,320 | High efficiency |
19 – 21 SEER | $3,000 – $9,000 | Very high efficiency |
22 – 26 SEER | $4,440 – $10,200 | Maximum efficiency |
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High-Velocity HVAC System Cost
A high-velocity HVAC system costs $4,200 to $18,000+ with installation, depending on the house and system size. Small duct, high-velocity (SDHV) systems use compact tubing, making them ideal for retrofitting older homes that lack space for conventional ducts.
High-velocity systems offer quieter operation, greater energy efficiency, and better humidity control than traditional HVAC systems.
Frequently Asked Question
To calculate an HVAC estimate, several factors are considered, including the size of the space, climate zone, energy efficiency, and the type of HVAC system. A general method is to calculate the required BTUs (British Thermal Units) by multiplying the square footage by 25 to 30 BTUs. Other considerations include the cost of ductwork, labor, permits, and any additional components like thermostats. Using an HVAC cost calculator or consulting a professional HVAC contractor can provide a more accurate estimate for your specific project.
For a 2,000 square foot home, you will typically need an HVAC system that provides around 60,000 BTUs or a 5-ton unit. This is based on the standard rule of 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but your specific requirements may vary depending on insulation, ceiling height, local climate, and energy efficiency ratings. Consulting with an HVAC professional is the best way to determine the exact system size for your home.
A 2-ton HVAC system typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000, including installation. The final price depends on factors such as brand, energy efficiency ratings (SEER), the complexity of installation, and local labor costs. Energy-efficient models with higher SEER ratings can cost more upfront but offer savings on energy bills over time.
For a 2,000 square foot home, a new air conditioner will generally cost between $5,000 and $10,000, including installation. The exact price depends on the system's efficiency, brand, and additional features like smart thermostats or zoned cooling. A 4 to 5-ton unit is usually recommended for homes of this size, depending on the climate and insulation quality.
It's uncertain whether HVAC prices will go down in 2024. Factors like supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and rising material costs have driven prices up recently. While some stability may return, energy efficiency regulations and continued inflation could keep prices elevated. Monitoring market trends and purchasing during off-peak seasons may help save on HVAC costs.
HVAC technicians charge high rates due to their specialized training, certification, and the complexity of the systems they work on. Installing and repairing HVAC systems involves a high level of skill, precision, and safety considerations. Additionally, HVAC equipment and tools are expensive, and techs often need to attend ongoing training to stay updated with the latest technology and regulations, contributing to higher service costs.
HVAC systems are expensive right now due to supply chain disruptions, material shortages, increased manufacturing costs, and rising demand for energy-efficient units. The cost of raw materials like copper, steel, and refrigerants has gone up, pushing up the overall cost of HVAC units. Additionally, stricter regulations for energy efficiency and environmentally friendly refrigerants contribute to higher upfront costs.
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