New Furnace and a/C Cost Guide 2026
Homeowners typically pay between $6,000 and $14,000 for a new furnace and central air system, depending on efficiency, size, and installation complexity. The main cost drivers are system size (tons and SEER/AFUE ratings), equipment quality, ductwork changes, and local labor rates. Budget planning should account for both equipment and installation, including potential permits and disposal fees.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furnace Unit | $2,500 | $4,000 | $6,500 | Gas or electric; high-efficiency models cost more |
| Air Conditioner Unit | $2,200 | $4,000 | $7,000 | Central AC with 13–16 SEER typical |
| Installation / Labor | $2,000 | $3,500 | $5,000 | Includes labor for removal, wiring, and access |
| Ductwork & Modifications | $1,000 | $2,500 | $5,000 | Needed if duct sizing or sealing is required |
| Permits & Inspections | $100 | $500 | $1,200 | Local requirements vary |
| Delivery / Disposal | $50 | $250 | $600 | Old unit removal often included by installers |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for a full furnace and A/C replacement is $6,000–$14,000, with per-unit pricing around $2,000–$6,000 for each major component and $2,000–$5,000 for installation and labor. Assumptions: 3–5 ton combined system, mid-range SEER (14–16) and AFUE (80%–96%), standard ductwork, and a suburban home. Per-unit ranges reflect variations by efficiency, brand, and climate. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $3,000 | $6,000 | $11,000 | Furnace and AC units; expansion for high efficiency |
| Labor | $2,000 | $3,500 | $5,000 | Install, wiring, refrigerant charging |
| Equipment | $2,200 | $4,000 | $7,000 | Compressor, heat exchanger, controls |
| Permits | $100 | $500 | $1,200 | Code compliance |
| Delivery / Disposal | $50 | $250 | $600 | Removing old equipment |
| Warranty / Contingency | $100 | $500 | $1,200 | Extended coverage options |
What Drives Price
System efficiency and capacity drive the largest cost differences. High AFUE furnaces and higher SEER ratings peak the price, but reduce ongoing energy bills. Another big factor is ductwork: homes with undersized or leaky ducts require sizing, sealing, or replacement, which adds to both cost and comfort gains. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”>
Fuel Type and Component Quality
Gas furnaces with high AFUE ratings (90%–98%) tend to cost more upfront but offer strong fuel savings. Electric heat pumps or dual-fuel systems add upfront complexity but can lower operating costs in milder climates. Brand, warranty length, and smart thermostat compatibility influence price and long-term value.
Home Characteristics
House size, ceiling height, and existing duct layout matter. A 2,000–2,500 sq ft home with standard ducts typically sits in the middle of the price range, while larger homes or homes with difficult access can push costs higher. Complex installations may require additional electrical work.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor rates and climate needs. In the Northeast, a higher percentage of homes require robust heating, pushing up costs. In the Southwest, cooling demand can raise AC equipment costs but with milder heating needs. In the Midwest, balancing seasonality affects scheduling and price spikes. Regional factors can swing totals by ±10–20%.
Labor & Installation Time
Typical installation takes 1–3 days, depending on ductwork and permits. Labor costs reflect crew size and local wage levels. Some jobs include a same-day removal of the old system with a single crew; others require staged work for safety or access. Assumptions: crew size, permit timing.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden or extra charges can surface as: refrigerant charge adjustments, contaminated ductwork, electrical upgrades, or attic/ crawlspace access modifications. Warranty activation or extended service plans may add $100–$1,000. Ask for a written scope to avoid surprise fees.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Assumptions: region: suburban U.S.; three scenarios reflect typical homes with mid-range ductwork and standard installation.
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Basic: 3-ton gas furnace (AFUE 80%), 13 SEER AC, standard ductwork, no enhanced thermostat.
data-formula=”3_ton × cost_per_ton”>Specs and totals: Furnace $2,400; AC $2,500; Labor $2,200; Ducts $1,000; Permits $300; Disposal $100. Total: $8,500–$9,500.
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Mid-Range: 3.5–4 ton gas furnace (AFUE 90%), 14–16 SEER AC, enhanced filtration, moderate duct upgrades.
Specs and totals: Furnace $3,000; AC $3,800; Labor $3,000; Ducts $2,000; Permits $500; Disposal $150. Total: $11,450–$12,900.
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Premium: 4–5 ton dual-fuel system (AFUE 95%+, SEER 16–18), full duct sealing, smart controls, insulated runs.
Specs and totals: Furnace $4,500; AC $5,200; Labor $4,000; Ducts $3,000; Permits $800; Disposal $200. Total: $17,000–$19,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Annual maintenance for a combined furnace and AC typically runs $150–$300, with higher-tier systems benefiting from smoother operation and longer service intervals. Expect occasional refrigerant recharges, filter changes, and potential compressor checks. Long-term ownership costs depend on efficiency, climate, and service quality.