How Much Does an AC Replacement Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $3,888 - $7,948
The average homeowner spends around $5,918 to install new air conditioning, but costs range from $3,888 to $7,948, depending on the unit's size and type.
AC replacement costs $5,918 on average, so budgeting for a replacement early on is essential to keep your home cool. The cost of a new AC unit varies greatly depending on what type of AC you have, the unit’s size, and labor. Central air installations costs significantly more than a window AC unit, for example.
Whether your AC had a sudden breakdown or is outdated, understanding the cost of replacing it is crucial to ensure you stay cool without breaking the bank.
- Average
- $5,918
- Low end
- $1,500
- high end
- $12,000
Air Conditioning Unit Installation Cost Factors
A new AC unit costs $5,918 on average, though most homeowners will pay between $3,888 and $7,948. For top-of-the-line ductless split system models, you may pay up to $12,000. Air conditioner type, size, ductwork, and local contractor fees will impact the cost of a new AC unit.
Type of AC Unit
The cost of purchasing a new AC unit will depend on the type you choose and the size of your home. For example, a window or portable AC unit is less expensive than a central air conditioner, since they’re smaller and less complex.
Below you can find the average costs for different types of air conditioning units, as well as the installation cost:
| Type of New AC Unit | Cost of Unit | Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Portable AC Unit | $100–$500 | $80–$700 |
| Window AC Unit | $150–$800 | $60–$400 |
| Central AC | $2,500–$4,500 | $3,500–$7,000 |
| Ductless Split System | $2,000–$3,000 | $1,200–$10,000 |
| Geothermal | $4,200—$12,000 | $11,000–$28,000 |
AC Unit Replacement vs. New AC Unit Installation
Replacing an existing AC unit will cost anywhere from $3,888 to $7,948 for most people. This cost assumes that you already have the required ductwork and electrical setup to simply replace the old unit.
Installing a new AC unit from scratch calls for adding new ductwork, which typically costs between $3,000 and $7,500 for 300 linear feet. Your home size and the total length of ductwork will also impact the price.
Size of the Air Conditioning Unit
As expected, larger AC units come with a higher initial cost. But getting the right size AC means efficiently cooling your home, so you can avoid having to install additional units later on. You don't want one without sufficient power to cool your home, and getting an air conditioner that's too big can be relatively expensive and provide less comfort due to uneven cooling.
| Home (Sq. Ft.) | AC Tonnage | BTUs |
|---|---|---|
| 400–500 | 1 | 10,000–12,000 |
| 500–1,000 | 1.5 | 14,000–18,000 |
| 1,000–1,500 | 2 | 21,000–24,000 |
| 1,500–2,000 | 2.5 | 30,000 |
| 2,000–2,500 | 3 | 34,000 |
| 2,500–2,700 | 4 | 48,000 |
| 2,700–3,300 | 5 | 60,000 |
AC tonnage refers to the amount of heat an AC unit can remove from a home in one hour. A 1-ton unit, for example, can remove 12,000 British thermal units (BTUs), while a 3-ton system will remove 36,000 BTUs. The larger your house, the more cooling power you'll need. The general rule is that you'll need one ton of cooling for every 500 or 600 square feet.
"Many people are tempted to buy larger units for faster cooling,” says Bob Tschudi, Angi Expert Review Board member and a general contractor based in Raleigh, NC. “But the result can be higher electric bills, inconsistent cooling, higher humidity and, in some cases, mold. Your HVAC contractor will calculate the exact size unit for your living space."
However, many other variables factor into which size air conditioner will work best in your home. For example, a basement is naturally cooler than first- or second-floor rooms. Rooms with high ceilings also require more air conditioning or the addition of ceiling fans to circulate air better.
Labor
You'll want to ensure a crucial task like this is done correctly. To avoid potential injuries or problems with unit sizing or installation, ask an experienced local AC installation pro for a quote on your system. Most people pay $500 to $2,500 in labor for AC replacement.
Brands
It’s best to opt for AC unit brands with an established reputation for service and longevity. Certain brands are also known for performing well in specific climate zones. Before selecting your AC unit, ask your HVAC specialist to fill you in on the benefits and features of the top-performing brands in your region.
Here are some top AC unit brands to consider:
American Standard®
Lennox®
Amana®
Frigidaire®
Coleman®
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is also a critical factor. This ratio measures an AC unit's total cooling output in BTU during a season, divided by its total electric energy input. The higher the resulting number, the better. All units sold are over 13 SEER, and some can perform at up to 27 SEER.
The advantages of improved SEER ratings are lowered energy costs and cooling times, but they come with a corresponding cost increase for the new unit and installation. If your hot weather season isn't particularly long, the increased price may not be worth it. But if you need to replace a broken AC unit with a new one anyway, this might be something to keep in mind to help offset your energy bills.
Number of Zones
Some larger homes with multiple floors require multiple AC systems to cool the whole house. The area where your AC system can effectively cool is called a "zone." If you need to cool multiple zones, you should budget for the cost of installing more than one AC system.
Removal of Existing AC System
Many companies will remove and dispose of your existing AC system when they install the new system. But if you need to have it removed separately, you can expect to pay around $25 to $200, depending on the size of your system and how easy it is to access.
Permits and Potential Fees
Most regions require that your AC system is installed by a properly licensed professional to ensure the system is safe for use. Before signing a contract, make sure your HVAC pro is licensed and committed to adhering to any local and federal regulations to avoid potential fees for improper installation.
Warranties
Most central AC manufacturers offer a warranty between 5 and 10 years that covers parts and equipment. But you can often purchase an extended warranty that will cover the unit for longer. Extended warranties typically cost $100 to $500, depending on their length and coverage. Keep in mind that HVAC warranties don’t automatically transfer to new homeowners when you move into a new home.
Additional Costs to Install Central Air Conditioning
Installing a central air conditioner can cost around $4,700 more than installing a window AC unit due to its complexity. Central AC systems involve more extensive ductwork and connections to the home’s broader HVAC infrastructure.
Plumbing
Central AC systems require drain lines to remove condensation from the air handler. Adding a drain line is usually included in the cost of installing a new AC system. But if not, you can expect to pay $100 to $150 for it.
Electrical
Central AC units must connect to a dedicated circuit with a standard 240-volt connection. Most AC units also require 15 to 60 amps of power, depending on their size. If your home doesn't have the required electrical circuit, you'll need to hire a local electrician to install one. New electrical circuits range from $100 to $150.
Ductwork
If you're installing a new central AC system but don't have existing ductwork, you'll also need to pay to install ducts. Installing new ductwork costs between $3,000 and $7,500 for 300 linear feet. The overall cost depends on the size of your home and how much ductwork you need.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Installing a central AC unit isn't a job you should tackle on your own. While it's possible to purchase an air conditioner from a wholesaler and install it yourself, it requires some serious skill to do it correctly. You must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to handle refrigerants. It is generally safest to hire a state-licensed local HVAC contractor to complete the installation for you.
For homes that have never had central AC, installation requires new breakers in your electrical panel, new wires to be run through your foundation, new duct work linking to your existing HVAC system, framing and finishing areas for ductwork, and mounting your unit on metal brackets or a concrete pad. All told, it's a fairly complex project that should be handled by a professional HVAC contractor.
Window AC and portable air conditioning units are the exceptions to this rule, as you will not need to worry about ductwork or installing new breakers. These can be DIY installed and will not require an HVAC professional to do the job safely and correctly. Still, it may be worth hiring a pro to ensure that you’re complying with building codes and local safety regulations.
AC Replacement Cost by Region
Wondering how the price of AC unit installation in your region compares to others? Here are some service price estimates across various areas of the country:
| Location | Average AC Unit Installation Price |
|---|---|
| New York, NY | $7,000 |
| Miami, FL | $4,150 |
| San Francisco, CA | $7,900 |
| Green Bay, WI | $4,000 |
| Nashville, TN | $4,900 |
Cost-Saving Tips for AC Replacement
Installing a new AC unit can be stressful, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Here are a few great ways to keep costs down:
If possible, consider the best time to install an AC, which is during the fall or spring.
Check for government rebates and tax breaks when upgrading to a high-efficiency system.
Consider opting for window units or a ductless split system if you only need a few rooms cooled in your home.
Get at least three quotes from qualified HVAC professionals to find the best deal.
Ask your HVAC contractor about financing options to make your new AC unit cost more affordable.
Invest in yearly maintenance to avoid costly repairs and get the most from your AC unit’s life span.
Tax Credits for New AC Units
It's possible to find rebates or tax breaks from federal or state agencies to offset the cost of air conditioning. Home upgrades that are ENERGY STAR® approved can provide up to $3,200 annually in federal income tax credits until the year 2032.
State governments may offer rebates if you install a particularly high-efficiency system, but they are often limited in duration. It's worth researching your state’s rebate options before you hire a professional air conditioning company.
In addition, air conditioning manufacturers are phasing out the hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) known as R-22, an ozone-destroying greenhouse gas. As of 2015, R-22 production has gone down by 90%.
Under current regulations, manufacturers may no longer produce or install new AC units that contain R-22. However, companies can still manufacture new parts, such as condensers with R-22, for replacement in existing units.
Kelly Weimert contributed to this piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
To keep your AC unit in good working condition, you should service your AC unit at least once per year. A great DIY option is to clean the evaporator coils at least once a year, preferably before the summer months. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs down the road.
The life span of an AC unit depends on the type and its usage. A window AC unit lasts around eight to 10 years, while central AC lasts 12 to 17 years, on average. Over time, the parts of the unit may wear out, fail, or become less efficient. Look out for signs your AC has run its course, such as leaks and foul smells.
Factors like your AC’s age and condition dictate whether you should repair or replace your air conditioning system. Most HVAC pros say to replace your unit if it's 15 years or older and to replace both units simultaneously if you have an indoor and outdoor unit. If replacing your unit with a more energy-efficient model would help lower your energy bill over time, it’s a good idea to replace it. Finally, if your existing AC is broken, find out if the cost to repair it is close to the cost to replace it. If so, it's best to invest in a new one.
Provided you don't need to repair, replace, or install new ductwork, it usually takes about a day to install a new central AC system. However, if you need new ductwork or extensive electrical or plumbing updates, it might take as many as five days to install a new system.
No, it's not typically advisable to only replace the outside AC unit connected to your system. AC units are designed to work as a cohesive system, and older units usually work much differently than newer units. Therefore, replacing only one component can lead to incompatibilities that affect the system’s performance. Additionally, replacing one component can void your warranty, costing you money in repairs.