HVAC REPLACEMENT · 2026 PLANNING MODEL

HVAC replacement cost calculator

Get a planning range in about a minute. Enter the home size, system type, efficiency, ductwork, and installation difficulty.

Free planning calculator

Tell us about the HVAC replacement.

Use your best estimate. If you're unsure, leave the default.

ZIP code optionalNot used to change the current national estimate.Finished home square footageHome size helps us scale the equipment and installation range.System you are replacingEfficiency tierDuctwork conditionInstallation difficultyElectrical upgrades, cramped access, refrigerant-line changes, and unusual site conditions can increase labor.

This is a planning estimate, not equipment sizing. A contractor should use a proper load calculation before recommending system capacity.

Cost examples

Want a quick comparison?

Open either section for common HVAC replacement examples.

By home sizeHVAC replacement cost by house sizeView

Central AC plus gas furnace, mid-range efficiency, reusable ductwork, and a typical replacement.

Finished home size	Planning range
1,000 sq ft	$5,200–$11,600
1,500 sq ft	$5,900–$13,100
2,000 sq ft	$6,500–$14,500
2,500 sq ft	$7,000–$15,700
3,000 sq ft	$7,500–$16,700

For a 2,000 sq ft home, this model is roughly $6,500–$14,500 under these assumptions.

By systemFurnace and AC vs. heat pumpView

Same 2,000 sq ft home with mid-range efficiency, reusable ductwork, and a typical installation.

System type	Planning range
Central AC + gas furnace	$6,500–$14,500
Air-source heat pump + air handler	$6,000–$14,500
Dual-fuel heat pump + furnace	$7,500–$19,000
Central air conditioner only	$5,000–$13,500

High efficiency, difficult access, electrical work, refrigerant-line changes, or substantial duct replacement can increase the final cost.

What moves the number

Why HVAC replacement quotes can be thousands apart

Two homes with similar square footage can need very different equipment and installation work. Climate, insulation, windows, duct condition, fuel type, electrical capacity, and equipment efficiency all matter.

System type: AC/furnace combinations, heat pumps, dual-fuel systems, and AC-only replacements have different equipment and labor costs.
Efficiency: higher-efficiency and variable-speed equipment generally costs more up front.
Ductwork: reusing healthy ducts is very different from replacing a substantial duct system.
Installation: electrical changes, refrigerant lines, access, permits, and controls can materially change the job.

Questions worth asking

Before you accept an HVAC quote

Does this calculator tell me what size HVAC system I need?

No. Square footage alone is not enough to size HVAC equipment. A contractor should perform an appropriate load calculation that accounts for climate, insulation, windows, orientation, air leakage, and the home's actual construction.

Why is the planning range so wide?

HVAC pricing varies by system type, efficiency, equipment brand, local labor, ductwork, electrical work, permits, and installation conditions. The planning range is intentionally broad enough to reflect those unknowns.

How should I compare contractor quotes?

Compare the exact equipment model numbers, efficiency ratings, labor scope, duct modifications, thermostat and controls, electrical work, permit responsibility, startup/testing, and both equipment and labor warranties.

HVAC replacement cost calculator

Tell us about the HVAC replacement.

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Why HVAC replacement quotes can be thousands apart

Before you accept an HVAC quote

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