Wellformed AI

Free tool · 2026 prices

HVAC replacement cost calculator: new AC, heat pump and furnace prices

See typical 2026 costs for every kind of heating and cooling system, a rough size for your home and your monthly payment with financing. Then use the checklist to get a fair quote.

How much will a new HVAC system cost?

$3,900–$7,900typical US cost, central air conditioner
$125.33a month on $5,900 (mid-range)
~3.5 tonsrough size for 2,000 sq ft

Equipment alone for a 3-ton central AC (homes of 1,600–2,000 sq ft) averages about $3,000 before labor, permits and extras.

What moves the price: system size and efficiency (SEER2/HSPF2), new ductwork or electrical work, permits, access (attics, crawl spaces), brand, and your region. Get at least two written quotes that include a Manual J load calculation.

Ranges: Angi, August 2026. The federal 25C tax credit ended on December 31, 2025; some states offer income-based Home Energy Rebates. Payments are estimates, not credit offers.

HVAC replacement cost by system type (2026)

SystemTypical cost
Central air conditioner$3,900–$7,900
Air-source heat pump$4,500–$8,000
Gas furnace$3,800–$10,000
Electric furnace$1,700–$7,100
Ductless mini-split$2,000–$14,500
Hybrid (dual-fuel) heat pump$2,500–$10,000
Geothermal heat pump$4,500–$24,500
Boiler$3,700–$8,300
Full system replacement (heating and cooling)$5,000–$12,500

Source: Angi, How much does HVAC replacement cost? (updated August 3, 2026). Ranges vary by size, efficiency, brand, ductwork and region.

New AC unit cost by home size

Equipment only, before labor, permits and extras. Not sure of the size? Use the AC size calculator.

Home sizeAC sizeEquipment
600–1,000 sq ft1.5 tons$2,000
1,000–1,600 sq ft2.5 tons$2,900
1,600–2,000 sq ft3 tons$3,000
2,000–2,500 sq ft3.5 tons$3,500

HVAC tax credits, rebates and refrigerants in 2026

  • Federal 25C tax credit ended: it doesn’t apply to equipment installed after December 31, 2025 (source).
  • State Home Energy Rebates: funded federally, run by states, available only in some, often with income limits. Check your state energy office (DOE).
  • Utility rebates: many utilities still pay for high-efficiency heat pumps and smart thermostats.
  • Refrigerants: new systems use R-454B or R-32; pre-2025 R-410A split systems can still be installed while stock lasts (EPA, 2026).

How to get a fair HVAC replacement quote

  1. Get at least two written quotes. Compare the same size, efficiency (SEER2 and HSPF2) and scope.
  2. Ask for a Manual J load calculation. Codes require equipment to be sized from it, and it prevents oversizing.
  3. Check what’s included. Permit, removal of the old unit, thermostat, line set, pad, electrical work and duct repairs.
  4. Ask about the refrigerant. Is it R-410A, R-454B or R-32, and are parts and service available locally?
  5. Read the warranty. Parts and labor coverage, and whether registration is required.
  6. Read financing terms. Look for deferred interest, fees and the rate after any promotion ends.
For HVAC companies

Questions

How much does it cost to replace an HVAC system in 2026?

Angi’s August 2026 data puts the average HVAC replacement at about $7,500, with most projects between $5,000 and $12,500. New ductwork and extras such as better filtration can push a full project to around $22,000.

How much is a new AC unit with installation?

A central air conditioner typically costs $3,900–$7,900 for the system. Angi’s estimate for one installed unit, including about $1,500 of labor and a $250–$400 permit, is $5,650–$9,800.

Is a heat pump cheaper than an AC and furnace?

An air-source heat pump typically costs $4,500–$8,000 and both heats and cools, while an AC plus a gas furnace means buying two systems. Running costs depend on your climate and local electricity and gas prices.

Is there still a federal tax credit for HVAC in 2026?

No. The 25C energy-efficient home improvement credit ended for equipment installed after December 31, 2025. Some states run income-based Home Energy Rebates, and utilities may offer their own rebates.

Can I still get an R-410A system?

Yes, while stock lasts. New split systems built since 2025 use A2L refrigerants such as R-454B or R-32, but in 2026 the EPA removed the installation deadline for R-410A split systems made before 2025.

How can I finance a new HVAC system?

Most contractors offer financing through lenders, often with promotional 0% periods. Read the terms: deferred-interest plans can charge all the interest back if the balance isn’t paid off in time. The calculator shows the monthly payment at common rates and terms.

Sources