Furnace and AC Replacement Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost to replace your HVAC system by entering your home and system details below.

Total conditioned space including all floors

Understanding HVAC Replacement Costs

Replacing your furnace and air conditioning system is a significant investment that depends on multiple factors including your home size, system type, efficiency rating, and local labor costs. Understanding these components helps you budget appropriately and make informed decisions.

Key Cost Factors

Home Size & Layout

Larger homes require more powerful systems and often more complex installations. Multi-story homes and those with zoning needs may require additional equipment.

System Type

Central systems with ductwork typically cost more than ductless options. Heat pumps offer heating and cooling in one system but may need auxiliary heat in cold climates.

Efficiency Rating

Higher SEER (cooling) and AFUE (heating) ratings cost more upfront but save on energy bills. The optimal efficiency depends on your climate and usage patterns.

Installation Complexity

Factors like attic vs. basement installations, duct modifications, electrical upgrades, and permits can significantly impact total costs.

Average HVAC Replacement Costs by System Type

System Type Typical BTU Range Average Cost Range Lifespan
Central AC & Gas Furnace 24,000-60,000 BTU $5,000-$12,000 15-20 years
Heat Pump System 24,000-48,000 BTU $6,000-$15,000 12-15 years
Ductless Mini-Split 9,000-36,000 BTU $3,000-$10,000 12-15 years
Boiler & AC Combo 60,000-150,000 BTU $8,000-$20,000 20-30 years
*Costs vary by region, home specifics, and equipment quality. Get multiple quotes for accurate pricing.

Efficiency Rating Cost Differences

Efficiency Level SEER Rating (AC) AFUE Rating (Furnace) Price Premium Annual Savings
Standard 13-14 SEER 80% AFUE Base Price -
Mid 16-18 SEER 90-92% AFUE 20-30% 20-30%
High 20+ SEER 95-98% AFUE 40-60% 30-50%
*Savings depend on local energy costs and usage patterns. Higher efficiency often qualifies for rebates.

Regional Cost Variations

Region Climate Factors Typical System Cost Adjustment
South Hot summers, mild winters High SEER AC, Basic Furnace 5-10% below average
North Cold winters, mild summers High AFUE Furnace, Basic AC 5-15% above average
West Mild year-round Heat Pumps common Average
Midwest Extreme seasons Dual-fuel systems 10-20% above average
*Labor costs and permit requirements vary significantly by location.

Additional Cost Factors

Equipment Factors

  • Brand reputation and warranty
  • Single-stage vs variable-speed
  • Smart thermostat compatibility
  • Noise reduction features
  • Air purification options

Installation Factors

  • Ductwork modifications
  • Electrical upgrades
  • Gas line installation
  • Permit fees
  • Disposal of old equipment

Home Factors

  • Number of zones
  • Insulation quality
  • Window efficiency
  • Ventilation needs
  • Humidity control

Financial Factors

  • Available rebates
  • Tax credits
  • Utility incentives
  • Financing options
  • Warranty extensions

Installation Considerations

Choosing a Contractor

  • Verify licenses and insurance
  • Check references and reviews
  • Get multiple detailed quotes
  • Confirm load calculations will be performed
  • Understand warranty coverage

Timing Your Replacement

  • Off-season installations may offer discounts
  • Emergency replacements cost more
  • Consider preemptive replacement of aging systems
  • Coordinate with other home improvements

Common Replacement Mistakes

Oversizing Equipment

Too large systems cause problems:

  • Short cycling reduces efficiency
  • Poor humidity control
  • Higher upfront costs
  • Increased wear and tear

Undersizing Equipment

Too small systems struggle to:

  • Maintain comfortable temperatures
  • Handle extreme weather
  • Provide even heating/cooling
  • Operate efficiently

Ignoring Ductwork

Poor ductwork impacts performance:

  • Leaks reduce efficiency 20-40%
  • Improper sizing causes airflow issues
  • Old ducts may contain contaminants
  • New systems need properly sized ducts

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Replacement

General Replacement Questions

How do I know when to replace my HVAC system?

Consider replacement when you notice:

  • Frequent repairs (more than $500/year)
  • System is 10-15 years old
  • Rising energy bills
  • Inconsistent temperatures
  • Excessive noise or humidity issues

Should I replace both furnace and AC at the same time?

Combined replacement is often recommended because:

  • Matching systems work more efficiently
  • Installation labor costs are combined
  • Newer refrigerants may require both units
  • Warranties align for simpler management

Cost & Financing Questions

What financing options are available for HVAC replacement?

Common financing methods include:

  • Manufacturer or contractor financing
  • Home equity loans or lines of credit
  • Energy-efficient mortgages
  • Utility company rebate programs
  • Credit cards with promotional rates

What rebates and tax credits are available?

Potential savings include:

  • Federal energy efficiency tax credits
  • State and local rebate programs
  • Utility company incentives
  • Manufacturer promotions
  • HVAC contractor discounts

Technical Questions

What size HVAC system does my home need?

Proper sizing requires:

  • Manual J load calculation
  • Consideration of insulation levels
  • Window efficiency and orientation
  • Local climate conditions
  • Home layout and occupancy

What's the difference between SEER and AFUE ratings?

Key efficiency metrics:

  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures AC cooling efficiency (higher is better)
  • AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) measures furnace heating efficiency (percentage of fuel converted to heat)
  • HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) measures heat pump heating efficiency