2026 HVAC Cost Guide

New AC & HVAC installation costs

A new central air conditioner typically costs $3,800–$7,500 installed, while a full system (AC plus furnace) runs $8,000–$15,000. The biggest price drivers are your home’s size (measured in tons), the SEER2 efficiency rating, and whether ductwork needs repair or replacement.

Project	Typical range (installed)
Central AC unit (2–3 ton)	$3,800 – $7,500
High-efficiency AC (16+ SEER2)	$5,500 – $9,500
Full HVAC system (AC + furnace)	$8,000 – $15,000
Ductwork replacement	$1,500 – $6,000

AC repair costs

Most air conditioning repairs cost between $150 and $650. Simple fixes like a capacitor or contactor are on the low end; compressor and refrigerant issues are the most expensive. Always get the diagnosis and parts pricing in writing before authorizing work.

Repair	Typical cost
Capacitor / contactor replacement	$150 – $400
Refrigerant recharge	$200 – $700
Fan motor replacement	$300 – $900
Compressor / major leak repair	$1,200 – $2,800

Heating & furnace costs

A new gas furnace costs $4,500–$9,500 installed depending on its AFUE efficiency and your home size. Furnace repairs typically run $150–$650, with heat exchanger replacements costing more.

Project	Typical range
Furnace tune-up / inspection	$80 – $200
Common furnace repair	$150 – $650
New gas furnace (installed)	$4,500 – $9,500

Heat pump costs

A heat pump costs $5,500–$12,500 installed and handles both heating and cooling in one system. In moderate climates it can lower energy bills, and many models qualify for the federal energy tax credit and local utility rebates in 2026.

Type	Typical range (installed)
Ductless mini-split (single zone)	$3,500 – $7,500
Central air-source heat pump	$5,500 – $12,500
Multi-zone / cold-climate system	$9,000 – $18,000

Maintenance & tune-up costs

A seasonal HVAC tune-up costs $80–$200 and is the cheapest way to extend equipment life, keep efficiency high, and catch small problems before they become expensive breakdowns. Many contractors offer annual maintenance plans for $150–$300 covering both heating and cooling visits.

Indoor air quality costs

Add-ons like whole-home air purifiers ($600–$2,500), humidifiers ($400–$1,200), and duct cleaning ($300–$700) improve comfort and air quality. These are often bundled at a discount during a system installation.

What affects your HVAC price the most?

• System size (tonnage): larger homes need more capacity, which raises equipment cost.
• Efficiency rating (SEER2 / AFUE): higher efficiency costs more up front but lowers monthly bills.
• Ductwork condition: old or leaky ducts may need repair or replacement.
• Region & labor rates: prices vary significantly by state and city.
• Rebates & financing: tax credits, utility rebates, and 0% financing can dramatically change your out-of-pocket cost.