HVAC Costs & Pricing Guide
Know what to expect before you call. Real pricing data for heating and cooling services in 2026.
Pricing data is sourced from contractor surveys, supplier price lists, and homeowner reports across 50 U.S. metro markets. See our research methodology →
HVAC Service Costs (2026)
| Service | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service Call / Diagnostic | $75 | $200 | $125 |
| AC Tune-Up | $75 | $200 | $125 |
| Furnace Tune-Up | $75 | $200 | $125 |
| AC Repair (Minor) | $150 | $500 | $300 |
| AC Repair (Major) | $500 | $1,500 | $900 |
| Furnace Repair | $150 | $600 | $350 |
| Central AC Installation | $3,500 | $7,500 | $5,500 |
| Central AC Replacement | $2,500 | $6,000 | $4,000 |
| Gas Furnace Installation | $2,500 | $6,500 | $4,500 |
| Heat Pump Installation | $4,000 | $8,000 | $6,000 |
| Mini-Split Installation | $2,000 | $5,000 | $3,500 |
| Multi-Zone Mini-Split | $5,000 | $15,000 | $8,000 |
| Ductwork Installation | $2,000 | $6,000 | $4,000 |
| Duct Cleaning | $300 | $700 | $450 |
| Refrigerant Recharge | $150 | $600 | $350 |
| Thermostat Installation | $150 | $400 | $250 |
| Air Handler Replacement | $1,500 | $3,500 | $2,500 |
| Evaporator Coil | $600 | $2,000 | $1,200 |
| Condenser Coil | $900 | $2,800 | $1,800 |
| Compressor Replacement | $1,200 | $3,000 | $2,000 |
New System Costs by Type
| System Type | Cost Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Central Air Conditioning | $3,500 - $7,500 | $5,500 |
| Gas Furnace (80% AFUE) | $2,500 - $4,500 | $3,500 |
| Gas Furnace (95%+ AFUE) | $3,500 - $6,500 | $5,000 |
| Heat Pump | $4,000 - $8,000 | $6,000 |
| Mini-Split (Single Zone) | $2,000 - $5,000 | $3,500 |
| Geothermal Heat Pump | $15,000 - $35,000 | $25,000 |
| Boiler (Gas) | $3,500 - $8,000 | $5,500 |
| Electric Furnace | $1,500 - $3,500 | $2,500 |
Factors Affecting HVAC Costs
System Size (Tonnage)
Larger homes need bigger systems. Proper sizing is critical for efficiency and comfort.
Efficiency Rating
Higher SEER (AC) or AFUE (furnace) ratings cost more upfront but save on energy bills.
Brand & Quality
Premium brands (Carrier, Trane, Lennox) cost more but often have better warranties and reliability.
Installation Complexity
Difficult access, ductwork modifications, or electrical upgrades add to installation costs.
Geographic Location
Labor rates vary significantly by region. Climate also affects equipment choices.
Permits & Inspections
Most HVAC installations require permits ($50-$300) and inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
A complete HVAC system (AC + furnace) costs $5,000-$12,000 installed for most homes in 2026. A standalone central AC runs $3,500-$7,500, while a gas furnace costs $2,500-$6,500. Mini-splits range from $2,000-$5,000 per zone. Heat pumps cost $4,000-$8,000. Factors affecting cost include system size, efficiency, brand, and installation complexity.
Schedule professional maintenance twice yearly: AC in spring before cooling season, and furnace in fall before heating season. Regular maintenance ($75-$200 per visit) extends equipment life, maintains efficiency, catches problems early, and keeps warranties valid. Many companies offer maintenance plans for $150-$300/year covering both visits.
Consider the 50% rule: if repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, replace. Also consider: age (if over 10-15 years), frequency of repairs, energy bills increasing, comfort issues, and available rebates. Newer systems are 20-40% more efficient, which can offset higher upfront costs through energy savings.
Proper sizing requires a Manual J calculation considering square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and more. Rough estimate: 1 ton of AC per 400-600 sq ft, but this varies significantly. Oversized systems short-cycle (wasting energy and reducing comfort), while undersized systems run constantly. Always get a professional load calculation.
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