How much does it cost to install an AC system in a house?

Author: Darien Jakubowski  |  Last update: Sunday, April 6, 2025

The cost of replacement for an air conditioner in a residential home can range between $5,500-$19,000. This includes labor and permit fees. This range also covers a variety of system sizes and levels of sophistication, including variable-speed AC systems.

How much does it cost to install AC in a 2000 sq ft house?

However, figuring out estimated AC prices for a 2,000-square-foot home can be tricky. On average, a new AC unit for a house will cost around $5,000, but prices can vary quite a bit. Costs for air conditioning in a home that is 2,000 square feet can range from as little as $2,000 to as much as $15,000.

What is the average cost to install a HVAC system?

Average Costs for Installing an HVAC System with Ductwork

2-ton HVAC system: $8,000-$12,000, depending on the brand. 3-ton HVAC system: $9,500-$13,500, depending on the brand. 4-ton HVAC system: $11,500-$15,500, depending on the brand.

How much does it cost to install a cooling system in a house?

Average Cost of New Heating and Cooling System

Furnace and AC Installation: $7,000 – $15,000. Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems: $3,000 – $10,000 per unit. Geothermal Heating and Cooling Installation: $18,000 – $30,000. Split System HVAC Installation: $6,000 – $14,000.

Can you add AC to an existing house?

If your home already has functioning ductwork, adding central AC is fairly straightforward. Installers will first inspect the existing ductwork to make sure it's able to move air efficiently into and out of your home, and then conduct a manual J calculation to estimate your anticipated heating and cooling needs.

How Much Does An Air Conditioner Cost? - AC Installation

Is it expensive to add AC to a house?

Central air costs about $5,000 to $12,000 on average.

Can you add AC to a house without ductwork?

Ductless mini split systems are smaller than traditional central air systems and don't require extensive ductwork to distribute the chilled air. This makes them much easier to install in a house.

How much do contractors charge to install thermostat?

The cost to install a thermostat is $182 on average, but you could pay between $113 and $264. Thermostats play an important role in our daily lives, cooling us down during the sweltering summer heat and keeping us warm and cozy during winter. While the average cost to install a thermostat is $182, pricing can vary.

How long does it take to install a cooling system?

Depending on variables like the size of your home and the type of HVAC system that is going to be installed – the installation process can take around one to five days.

Does insurance cover HVAC?

Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is a result of a covered disaster or peril, including high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail or even a fire. So if lightning strikes your unit and damages its electrical components, your homeowners insurance policy would probably cover it.

What time of year is the cheapest to replace HVAC?

Better pricing: Since there's less demand for HVAC system replacement in spring and fall, your HVAC contractor might even offer their own savings incentives.

How much is labor to install an AC unit?

HVAC Pro Cost

Most people pay $500 to $2,500 in labor for AC replacement.

How long does a full AC install take?

First, your new air conditioner can likely be installed in just one day, with the vast majority of installations taking 4-8 hours. Don't worry, you're not going to be left to fend for yourself in the sweltering heat of your own living room for long.

What is the easiest type of cooling systems to install?

Window air conditioning units are smaller, more portable, and easier to install than most other types of units. They are also the cheapest option for adding air conditioning to your home, especially if you're working with a tight budget.

How much does installing cooling cost?

An HVAC replacement cost is $7,500 on average. This range could be as low as $5,000 or as high as $12,500, depending on the type and size of your unit, the brand, and labor costs. Your overall cost for a new HVAC unit could reach $22,000 if you add new ductwork and additional features like a HEPA filtration system.

Do HVAC techs install thermostats?

It is better to leave thermostat installation and calibration to certified HVAC technicians. They offer quick and correct device installation for energy and money savings and maximum comfort. Therefore, you should contact an experienced HVAC technician for your installation.

How much does it cost to add HVAC to a house?

For a standard-efficiency air conditioner and furnace with simple duct layout, you can expect an average HVAC installation cost of around $10,000–$15,000, based on market research by the This Old House team. However, if you own a larger home and want premium-efficiency equipment, total project costs can exceed $20,000.

How much do mechanics charge to change thermostat?

Car thermostat replacement time is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make of the car. It will cost you around $190 to $350, including labor. Thermostat repairs usually take more time, requiring extra time to diagnose and analyze the vehicle's thermostat. It can take up to 2 hours.

What is the best AC unit for an old house?

4 Heating and Cooling Solutions for Historic Homes
  • #1: Mini-Split System.
  • #2: High-Velocity System.
  • #3: Modulating-Condensing Gas Boiler System.
  • #4: Central Air Conditioning System.

How much does it cost to install AC without ductwork?

Ductless AC units typically come as a kit and cost between $1,000 and $8,000, with the installation costing about $1,000 depending on the labor time.

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