How much does AC replacement cost?
How much does AC replacement cost?
$5,000 – $8,300 average AC replacement cost (standard efficiency)
AC replacement cost
AC replacement costs $5,000 to $8,300 on average for a standard efficiency unit. A mid-range AC unit costs $8,300 to $12,500 installed, while high-efficiency systems can reach $14,000+ with installation. The total AC installation cost depends on your location, the unit size, type, and brand, and your home's unique needs.
| Efficiency level | Average cost installed* | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $5,000 – $8,300 | Single-stage cooling; basic features; standard efficiency |
| Mid-range | $8,300 – $12,500 | Two-stage cooling; enhanced features and efficiency |
| High-end | $12,500 – $14,000+ | Variable speed; premium features; maximum efficiency |
*Based on a 2,000-square-foot home; Not including ductwork modifications or replacement
AC unit cost by home size
Your home's size directly impacts AC replacement costs, as larger homes require more powerful systems to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout every room. The table below shows the average total cost to replace an AC unit based on a home's square footage.
| Home size (square feet) |
AC unit tons | Average cost installed |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 1.5 – 2 | $4,500 – $7,000 |
| 1,200 | 2 – 2.5 | $5,000 – $7,500 |
| 1,500 | 2.5 – 3 | $6,000 – $8,500 |
| 1,600 | 3 – 3.5 | $6,200 – $9,000 |
| 1,800 | 3 – 4 | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| 2,000 | 3.5 – 4.5 | $7,000 – $11,500 |
| 2,200 | 4 – 5 | $7,800 – $12,500 |
| 2,500 | 4.5 – 5 | $8,500 – $13,500 |
| 3,000 | 5+ | $10,000 – $16,000+ |
*Not including ductwork modifications or replacement
AC installation cost factors
An AC unit's size, type, and efficiency are the primary factors impacting the cost. However, several other factors contribute to the final price:
Location: Contractors charge more for labor in areas with higher living costs or higher demand.
Climate: Southern regions often require higher efficiency units due to the longer warm seasons.
Complexity: Difficult installations with limited access, electrical upgrades, or ductwork modifications increase labor costs and the project timeline.
Brand & features: Premium brands like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox cost more but offer advanced features, better warranties, and improved reliability.
Permits and inspections: Permits for AC replacement cost $100 to $250. Permits for new AC installations with ductwork cost anywhere from $250 to $1,500.
Time of year: Late fall and early spring are off-season periods when contractors offer discounts. Expect to pay more during the peak summer months (May through August), when AC contractors are in high demand.
Warranty: Extended warranties and service plans add to your upfront costs but provide long-term protection.
Pre-install evaluation: Professional load calculations add to the initial cost but ensure proper AC sizing and efficiency.
Ductwork
Most AC replacements can use existing ductwork, but modifications may be necessary to optimize performance. Minor duct sealing and repairs cost $300 to $1,500 and often improve energy efficiency significantly.
Ductwork modifications may include:
Sealing leaks to improve efficiency
Resizing ducts for proper airflow
Adding return air vents
Insulating ductwork in unconditioned spaces
If some or all of your ducts are beyond repair, ductwork replacement costs $1,400 to $5,600+.
System type and speed
The type of compressor significantly affects both cost and performance:
Single-stage compressors operate at one speed, running at 100% capacity whenever they're on.
Two-stage compressors offer two speeds for better efficiency and temperature control.
Variable-speed compressors adjust their output continuously for optimal comfort and efficiency.
Variable-speed systems cost the most but provide superior comfort, humidity control, and energy efficiency.
AC unit replacement cost by tons
Air conditioning capacity is measured in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTUs and cools approximately 500 to 600 square feet. However, the home's layout, ceiling height, insulation quality, local climate, and sun exposure all affect AC sizing requirements.
The following table shows the average cost for different tonnage AC units:
| Tonnage | BTUs | AC unit prices | AC cost installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 tons | 18,000 BTU | $2,200 – $3,500 | $4,700 – $6,500 |
| 2 tons | 24,000 BTU | $2,500 – $3,800 | $5,000 – $6,800 |
| 2.5 tons | 30,000 BTU | $2,900 – $4,200 | $5,400 – $7,200 |
| 3 tons | 36,000 BTU | $3,300 – $4,800 | $5,800 – $7,800 |
| 3.5 tons | 42,000 BTU | $3,700 – $5,300 | $6,200 – $8,300 |
| 4 tons | 48,000 BTU | $4,000 – $5,800 | $6,500 – $8,800 |
| 5 tons | 60,000 BTU | $4,500 – $6,500 | $7,000 – $9,500+ |
*For basic installation; Not including ductwork modifications or replacement
Proper AC sizing is critical. An oversized unit will short-cycle and waste energy, while an undersized system runs constantly without adequately cooling your home.
Air conditioner prices by SEER rating
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, measures how efficiently your AC uses electricity. Higher SEER ratings mean the unit uses less power to cool the same area. Federal minimums require 14 SEER (13.4 SEER2) in northern and southwestern states and 15 SEER (14.3 SEER2) in southeastern regions.
| SEER rating | SEER2 rating | Efficiency | AC unit prices | Total cost installed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 – 14 SEER | Up to 13.4 | Standard | $2,800 – $4,900 | $5,300 – $7,900 |
| 15 – 16 SEER | 14.0 – 14.7 | High | $4,200 – $6,300 | $6,700 – $9,300 |
| 17 – 18 SEER | 15.0 – 17.2 | High | $5,000 – $7,600 | $7,500 – $10,600 |
| 19 – 21 SEER | 16.5 – 18.5 | Very high | $6,600 – $9,200 | $9,100 – $12,200 |
| 22 – 26 SEER | Up to 25.8 | Maximum | $8,900 – $14,300 | $11,400 – $17,300+ |
*For basic installation; Not including ductwork modifications or replacement
Cost to replace AC unit by type
While central AC remains a popular choice for whole-home cooling, there are several types of air conditioning systems. Your total cost for AC replacement depends on which type best suits your home.
| AC unit type | Average unit price | Total cost installed |
|---|---|---|
| Central air conditioner | $2,800 – $7,500 | $5,300 – $10,500 |
| Central air conditioner and ductwork | $5,000 – $10,000 | $9,000 – $16,000 |
| Ductless mini-split AC cost | $5,000 – $15,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Window AC unit cost | $175 – $850+ | $300 – $1,100 |
| Portable AC unit* | $250 – $950 | $250 – $950 |
| HVAC system cost (furnace and AC) | $6,500 – $11,000 | $10,500 – $18,500 |
| Air-source heat pump cost | $4,000 – $9,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Geothermal heat pump cost | $15,000 – $25,000 | $22,000 – $38,000 |
*No installation required.
When to replace an AC unit
AC repair costs $150 to $650 on average and may delay the need for replacement. However, several signs indicate it's time to replace your air conditioning system rather than repair it:
Uneven cooling or humidity issues
Strange noises or odors from the system
The system is more than 10 to 12 years old.
Repairs will cost at least 50% of the cost of a new AC.
The system still uses R-22 or R-410A refrigerants.
Monthly energy bills are steadily increasing.
The system breaks down frequently.
New AC units operate 20% to 40% more efficiently than 10-year-old models, which translates to monthly utility savings that can add up significantly over time.
Air conditioner installation FAQs
What size air conditioner do I need?
As a rule of thumb, you will need about 16 to 30 BTUs for each square foot. However, professional load calculations consider square footage, insulation quality, window placement and efficiency, ceiling height, and local climate for accurate sizing.
How long does it take to replace an AC unit?
Replacing an AC unit takes anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days or more, depending on the situation.
Replacing the outdoor unit only: 4 to 8 hours.
Replacing both the outdoor and indoor units: 8 to 14 hours.
Complete system installation with ductwork modifications: 2 to 3 days.
Weather conditions and permit requirements can also affect the timeline.
Do you tip AC installers?
Tipping AC installers is appreciated but not required. Consider tips of $20 to $50 per installer for exceptional service, especially during extreme weather conditions. Installers are also grateful when homeowners offer cold beverages and allow restroom access during the installation.
Can I replace just the outdoor unit?
Replacing only the outdoor unit is possible if the indoor components are compatible and in good condition. However, matched systems provide optimal performance and efficiency. If your old system uses R-22 or R-410A refrigerant, you can't replace just the outdoor unit—you'll need a full system upgrade due to refrigerant changes.
Does home insurance cover AC replacement?
Home insurance may cover AC replacement if damage results from covered perils like storms or electrical surges. Home insurance policies do not cover normal wear and tear or maintenance issues. Review your policy terms to confirm your specific coverage and consider equipment coverage endorsements for additional protection.
Does a home warranty cover AC replacement?
Home warranties cover major AC repairs and may include replacement if repair costs exceed coverage limits. Coverage terms vary by provider and plan level. Most standard home warranty plans cost $420 to $720 per year, plus $75 to $125 for each service visit.
How long do new AC systems last?
New AC systems last 15 to 20 years on average. The exact lifespan of an AC system depends on several factors:
Installation quality
Maintenance frequency
Usage patterns
Environmental conditions
Equipment quality
Getting estimates from AC contractors
Follow these guidelines to help you choose the best AC installation company near you:
Compare quotes from at least three NATE-certified installers.
Compare same-size, same-efficiency AC units across quotes.
Read their customer reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Only hire a company that is licensed, insured, bonded, and has a 5+ year history.
Ask about system sizing, labor, and warranty coverage.
Get all terms in writing, including the timeline and any possible extra costs.
Be cautious of extremely low quotes, as this often indicates inferior quality or lack of experience.
Never pay in full before they begin the installation.
Questions to ask an air conditioner pro
Before hiring an AC contractor, ask these important questions to ensure you're making the best choice for your home:
Are you licensed and insured for AC installation in this state?
Are your technicians NATE-certified for AC installation?
How many years have you been installing AC systems?
Will you do a Manual J calculation to size my system?
What SEER rating provides the best value for my climate and usage?
Which brands and models do you recommend for my home, and why?
Does the quote include permit costs and old unit disposal?
What warranty coverage comes with installation?
How long will the installation take and what does the process involve?
Do you offer maintenance plans for the new system?
What financing options are available?
Can you provide references from recent installations?
What happens if issues come up after installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.