HVAC Replacement Cost Calculator: 2026 AC, Furnace & Heat Pump Prices

HVAC pricing changed meaningfully in 2026: the SEER2 minimum jumped to 14.3 nationally (15.2 in the South), R-454B refrigerant replaced R-410A across most new equipment, and heat pump tax credits under the IRA still return up to $2,000.

2026 HVAC Cost by System Type

• Central AC only (14.3 SEER2): $4,500-$7,800 installed
• High-efficiency AC (16-18 SEER2): $6,000-$10,500
• Gas furnace only (80% AFUE): $3,800-$6,200
• High-efficiency furnace (96% AFUE): $5,200-$8,500
• AC + furnace combo (3-ton): $8,500-$14,500
• Heat pump (3-ton, 16 SEER2): $7,500-$13,000 (before $2K IRA credit)
• Ductless mini-split (per zone): $3,500-$6,500

Sizing: Why Tonnage Matters More Than SEER

A rough US rule: 1 ton of cooling per ~500 sq ft. Oversizing wastes money and short-cycles the compressor; undersizing runs the unit non-stop. Always ask the contractor for a Manual J load calculation — it's the difference between a 15-year system and a 7-year one.

The Formula

Total = (Base install + Tons × Per-ton equipment cost + Ductwork + Thermostat) × Regional cost index

Hidden Costs to Budget

• New / modified ductwork: $2,500-$5,000
• Line set replacement (R-454B): $600-$1,200
• Electrical disconnect + whip: $250-$450
• Permit + inspection: $150-$400
• Old refrigerant recovery + haul-away: $200-$350