HVAC Replacement Cost: How Much To Expect

Your HVAC system is essential to keep you comfortable in your home. Not only does it control your heating and air conditioning, but it also eliminates humidity and moisture in the air.

Be prepared when an HVAC tech comes to diagnose a problem. If your unit has to be replaced, this guide will help you understand how much HVAC replacement costs. 

Separate the Parts from the Labor

A large part of your HVAC replacement cost will be the parts. Before you hire an HVAC contractor, you can look up the estimated cost of a new HVAC system. Look for articles that compare and contrast the latest models to see what common system costs and features are. You can also check on major retailers websites to see what they charge. 

Many contractors will be transparent about the parts and materials cost of replacing an HVAC system. However, it helps to know what to expect so you can focus on the labor portion of the estimate. 

HVAC Replacement is Seasonal

If you are looking to save on your HVAC replacement cost, consider the time of year that you hire a repair company. HVAC companies get the most calls during the hot summer months of July and August. Their calls peak again during December and January for heating repair. If you try to schedule a replacement at this time, then you may have a longer waiting period and may pay more because of increased demand. 

If you know that your HVAC system is aging, try to schedule a replacement appointment during the least busy months – like March and October. You may be able to save money and will have better scheduling options to choose from. 

HVAC Replacement Costs Vary by City and State

Another factor to consider as you compare prices for HVAC replacement cost is your location. HVAC replacement costs vary by state and city – and even by zip code. You can expect the cost of replacing an air conditioning unit to be much higher in Miami (which has a higher cost of living) than in Mobile or Tulsa. This means you can’t rely on national averages to estimate your replacement cost. 

Nationally, most homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 to $10,000 to replace their HVAC systems. Whether you pay closer to $5,000 or upward of $10,000 depends on where you live. 

Keep in mind that there are other factors that contribute to HVAC replacement cost. These include the size of the house you live in, the ductwork within your home, and the overall project difficulty. Even if you live in a fairly affordable area, you may end up paying more because of the nature of your home.   

HVAC Systems Typically Last 15-20 Years

The average heating and cooling system is built to last two decades. However, the actual lifespan of your HVAC system will vary depending on a several factors. For example:

• How well-maintained the unit is. An HVAC system that is regularly cleaned and repaired can last longer than 25 years in good operating condition. 
• Personal use. Do you run your HVAC system 24 hours per day at high levels, or do you keep it off when it is cool out? The more your unit runs and its intensity can wear it out faster. 
• The climate in your region. HVAC systems may have shorter lifespans in areas with high heat (where the unit is used more aggressively) and in high humidity. A unit that lasts 20 years in one state might sputter after a decade in another.  
• The reliability of the brand. While most HVAC brands have the same longevity, you may have a brand that doesn’t last as long in your area or with your pattern of use. 

Knowing that your HVAC system is aging can help you prepare to replace it. Your HVAC service provider will be able to tell you if your unit is getting worn down and is more prone to breaking. This can help you budget for a replacement within the next few years. 

Use Our Tool to Calculate HVAC Replacement Cost 

If you are looking to get an estimate for your HVAC replacement cost, the HOMEE Cost Calculator can help. Just enter your zip code, estimated hours of work and materials cost (like the cost of a new unit) to determine how much you should expect to spend.

When you are ready to move forward with the job, use HOMEE to find a reliable HVAC tech you can trust. All of the contractors on our network are thoroughly vetted, with criminal background checks and licensing reviews. This means you can confidently get the best contractors in your area and hire them to get the job done right—with just a tap of a button.