Written by

Tara Farmer

October 22, 2024

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Average cost to move an AC unit or furnace

The average cost to move an AC unit ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. Longer distances or difficult jobs cost more. Relocating a furnace costs $3,000 to $10,000+ due to the job complexity. Furnace or AC unit relocation cost depends mostly on the distance moved and how much additional work is required.

Cost to relocate AC unit

Relocating an AC condenser unit costs $1,500 to $2,500 on average if you're moving the unit just a few feet or a short distance with little to no challenges. The farther you need to move the unit, the more work involved and the higher the cost.

The process is similar to installing a new AC unit and involves several key steps:

• Pumping down and removing all refrigerant from the system and line set

• Cutting the line set and disconnecting the unit

• Installing a new line set, pea gravel, and a pad at the new location, ensuring everything is level

• Reconnecting the unit, recharging the system with refrigerant, and testing its operation

Cost to relocate furnace

Moving a furnace is more complicated and expensive than moving an AC unit, with costs starting around $3,000 for even a short move. Prices often range from $6,000 to $12,000 or more for complex jobs or when moving a furnace up to an attic. This is because relocating a furnace often involves:

• Reconfiguring electrical wiring

• Adjusting gas lines

• Modifying ductwork

• Additional plumbing for exhaust gases and condensation drainage

Factors to consider before moving a furnace or AC unit

Several factors affect the cost and feasibility of moving an AC unit or furnace, including:

• Distance: Moving the unit just a few feet might allow you to reuse the existing refrigerant line but moving it farther or around a corner may require a new line set, increasing the cost.

• Size & type of unit: A larger unit typically requires more labor to move, increasing the project cost. A high-efficiency unit may be more complex and costly to move than a traditional model.

• Age of the unit: Moving an older unit nearing the end of its life expectancy may not be cost-effective. If the unit is 10 to 15+ years old or uses R22 refrigerant, consider replacing it instead.

• Accessibility & job complexity: The job will cost more if the unit's new location is difficult to reach or the job requires complex ductwork or electrical changes. If you have a finished basement, accessing the area to run new lines may involve removing drywall, increasing labor & material costs.

• Labor: AC unit and furnace relocation follow almost the same process as installing a new unit, making the labor cost similar to the cost of HVAC installation.

• Materials: The total material cost depends on the number of systems—electrical, plumbing, gas, ductwork—involved in the relocation and the distance between the old and new locations.

• Parts disposal: If your contractor doesn't include it in the estimate, hiring a junk removal company costs $150 to $350 on average to remove and dispose of any old parts and materials left after the move.

• HVAC inspection: An HVAC inspection costs $150 to $500 and can help you determine whether to move or replace the unit based on your specific situation.

Moving vs. replacing a furnace or AC unit

In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace rather than move a furnace or ac unit, depending on the system age, efficiency, and the complexity of relocation. HVAC replacement costs $5,000 to $11,000, while furnace replacement costs $2,000 to $10,000.

Reasons to move an AC condenser or furnace

There are several reasons you might consider relocating your AC unit or furnace:

• Noise reduction: If your outdoor AC unit is located near a window or living space, moving it can make your home more peaceful.

• Space optimization: You might need to move your outdoor condenser unit to free up space for a new patio, landscaping, or home addition.

• Enhanced exterior: Relocating the unit from the side of your house to the back can improve your home's curb appeal.

• Reduced debris buildup: Moving the unit away from trees or other sources of debris can prevent clogs and improve performance.

• Improving aesthetics: Relocating the furnace to a closet or garage can free up space and make your living areas more visually appealing.

• Accommodating an upgrade: A new, larger furnace might not fit in the existing space, requiring relocation.

• Code changes: You may need to relocate the unit to remain compliant with changing building codes.

FAQs about relocating an AC unit or furnace

Can I move an AC unit myself?

Experts advise against moving an AC unit yourself. Relocating a furnace or AC unit is a complex task that requires specialized knowledge and experience. Hiring a qualified HVAC technician ensures the job is done correctly and safely, preventing potential damage and costly mistakes. Professionals can also help you:

• Evaluate the feasibility of relocating your system.

• Assess the impact on energy efficiency.

• Explore alternative solutions.

Can you move an internal furnace?

Yes, you can move an internal furnace. However, it's a more complex and expensive undertaking than moving an AC unit, as it involves reconfiguring ductwork, electrical wiring, gas lines, and plumbing. Also, in some cases, moving the furnace will disrupt the system balance and reduce its efficiency.

How long does it take to move an AC unit?

Moving an AC unit typically takes 4 to 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the move, the distance involved, the accessibility of the new location, and any additional work required.

How long does it take to move a furnace?

Moving a furnace takes anywhere from 1 to 2 days or more, depending on how challenging the job is and how many structural modifications are required.

What are some alternatives to relocating a furnace or AC unit?

Instead of relocating, consider:

• Upgrading to a quieter, more compact unit in the same location

• Creating a decorative enclosure or screen around the existing unit

• Reorganizing the space with vertical storage solutions

• Installing a zoned HVAC system with multiple smaller units

Getting quotes for relocating a furnace or AC unit

When selecting an HVAC contractor near you for your furnace or AC unit relocation project, remember to:

• Get quotes from several reputable contractors to compare pricing and services.

• Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced in HVAC relocations.

• Research the contractor's reputation and read reviews on websites like HomeGuide and Google.

• Discuss the project details and any potential challenges with the contractor to ensure they understand your needs.

• Get a detailed breakdown in writing of everything included in the estimate and any other potential charges.

• Avoid choosing the company with the lowest quote, as their low price may indicate a lack of experience or poor-quality work.

• Never pay in full until the job is complete and the system has been tested successfully.

Questions to ask an HVAC contractor

• Are you licensed and insured?

• How long have you been in business?

• What experience do you have relocating units like mine?

• Can you provide a list of references I can contact?

• Is my system young enough and in good enough condition to relocate?

• Would upgrading to a new high-efficiency system save me money in the long run?

• Is it even possible, and are there any drawbacks to moving my existing unit to my desired location?

• How long will the relocation take, and what does it involve?

• Can I have a complete breakdown of the cost, including labor, materials, and any other fees?

• What extra costs might come up during the relocation?

• Do you offer any warranty or guarantee?