Use this HVAC replacement cost calculator to estimate the installed price of a new central AC, gas furnace, AC and furnace combo, heat pump or mini-split for your home size. It gives a planning range from published 2026 and 2025 price data, before rebates, so you can sanity-check contractor quotes.
Prices checked on November 4, 2026. Your actual price depends on your contractor, region, equipment brand and efficiency, and on any ductwork or electrical work.
HVAC replacement cost calculator
New or modified ductwork Electrical panel upgrade to 200 amps Permit fees (if not in the quote)How the HVAC replacement cost calculator works
To begin with, the calculator picks the price range that matches your system and home size from the sources below. For a central AC, it first estimates the size from the SupplyHouse tonnage table, which assumes a moderate climate, 8-foot ceilings and average insulation. Then it applies HomeGuide’s installed prices for that tonnage.
| System | Price data used |
|---|---|
| Central AC | HomeGuide installed prices by tonnage, from $4,700–$6,500 for 1.5 tons to $7,000–$9,500 for 5 tons |
| Gas furnace | HomeGuide prices by home size, from $2,000–$4,500 to $5,500–$10,000+ |
| AC and furnace together | HomeGuide’s $3 to $6 per square foot |
| Ducted heat pump | Fixr prices by home size, from $5,000–$8,000 to $15,000–$25,000 |
| Ductless mini-split | HomeGuide prices by number of zones, from $1,200–$4,000 to $6,000–$12,000 |
In addition, optional extras add their own ranges. For example, Fixr puts ductwork on an AC job at $1,400 to $6,000 and permits at $50 to $1,500, while HomeGuide lists a 200-amp panel upgrade at $1,400 to $2,500.
What the estimate doesn’t include
- Rebates and credits: the range is before incentives. See our guide to heat pump rebates for what’s available in 2026.
- Premium equipment: variable-speed or very high-efficiency models cost more. Trane’s 2026 averages, for instance, run up to $13,669 for its top AC line.
- Unusual installs: attics, tight spaces, long refrigerant runs or fuel switching can add cost.
- Exact sizing: the tonnage is a rough estimate. Instead, a Manual J load calculation sets the real size; see why a Manual J matters.
How to use your estimate
- First of all, run the HVAC replacement cost calculator for each system you’re considering.
- Then get at least three written quotes from licensed contractors.
- Next, compare each quote with the range, and ask about any big differences.
- After that, check which rebates and utility programs apply.
- Finally, compare financing offers only after you know the cash price.
For a line-by-line checklist, read how to compare HVAC quotes. You can also dig into the detailed guides on AC replacement cost, furnace replacement cost and heat pump cost.
HVAC replacement cost calculator: FAQ
How accurate is this HVAC replacement cost calculator?
It gives a realistic range based on published averages, but it isn’t a quote. Therefore, use it to spot quotes that are far outside the normal range, and then ask contractors why.
Why is the heat pump range so wide?
Heat pump prices vary with efficiency, size and installation details, as our heat pump cost guide explains. In addition, larger homes need bigger units.
Does the calculator include removing my old system?
Check each quote, because removal may be listed separately. HomeGuide, for example, lists furnace removal separately at $50 to $200.
Is it cheaper to replace the AC and furnace together?
It can make sense. For instance, HomeGuide suggests replacing both when the furnace is over 15 years old, and it prices the pair at $3 to $6 per square foot. See whether to replace your AC and furnace at the same time.
Sources and review
Sources: HomeGuide, AC replacement cost (July 25, 2025); HomeGuide, new HVAC system cost (August 27, 2025); HomeGuide, new furnace cost (December 31, 2025); HomeGuide, heat pump and mini-split cost (2026); Fixr, heat pump installation cost (January 22, 2026); Fixr, AC installation cost (January 28, 2026); SupplyHouse, AC tonnage guide; Trane, 2026 pricing guide (modified May 26, 2026). All checked on November 4, 2026.
Written by: HVAC Switch. Last updated: November 4, 2026. Read our editorial policy to learn how we research prices, or contact us if you spot an error.