Key Takeaways
- Identify the right central AC system by checking your old unit’s specs or using HVACDirect.com’s sizing guide for accurate recommendations.
- Expect replacement costs to range from $2,800–$6,500 including installation, with additional costs if new ductwork is required.
- Use HVACDirect.com’s comparison tools and expert support to make a confident purchase that boosts comfort and adds up to 10% to your home’s value.
If you're thinking about replacing your central air system, but aren't sure what it's going to cost you, HVACDirect.com can help. Calculating the cost of central air replacement is probably one of the most essential steps during the process. In this article, we break the process into its two most important parts: determining what you need and determining the cost of what you need.
How to Determine What Central Air System You Need
The easiest way to choose a new AC system is to look at what equipment you already have. If you were happy with your home's comfort level when the equipment was working, you've got a great start. Look up the part number of your old air conditioning system as a starting point for shopping for a new AC system. Looking up the part number will provide information about tonnage, SEER rating, burner stages and more, helping you find the right replacement AC system.
If you weren't happy with your old system because it didn't keep your space cool enough, our central air system sizing guide can help you determine exactly what you need for your home to achieve maximum comfort. Just plug in your square footage, the type of system you need and the zone your home or business is located within. That's all you need to identify the type of central air system for your home. This, of course, is just a guide. The next step is to consult with a professional to ensure the system is exactly tailored to your specific needs.
How to Determine the Cost of Your New Central Air System
Now that you know what you need, it's time for you to decide what you're willing to spend. Step one in determining how much it is to install central AC is to consider tax credits and other associated rebates that may be associated with your purchase. Step two involves taking a good hard look at the amount of money you're willing to spend and then making an educated decision on the best and most efficient central air system for your dollar.
If you used our central air system calculator while completing the step we described above, then you've already seen the range of AC and furnace system options our online store has recommended for you. Wondering what to do next? You're not alone. Many customers can become overwhelmed at the number of options available. This is where our comparison tool comes into play. Keep in mind that the calculator is just an estimator for gauging price range and costs may vary depending on your specific needs and installation setup.
Using Our Central Air System Comparison Tool
The central air system comparison tool is one of the most under-appreciated tools available to you as a customer. Instructions on how to use the tool are very straightforward. Click the checkboxes on the central air systems you are interested in. Once you have a few options checked, click the Compare button located in the lower left of your screen.
You'll be taken to a comparison page, where you can compare and contrast things like AC and furnace system costs, SEER ratings, heating BTUs, tonnage and other important features of your new system.
Select Your Central Air System and Buy with Confidence
Once you've compared a few systems and found an AC & furnace system with the features you want at a cost that works for your budget, you're ready to buy! Add the central AC and furnace system you've selected to your cart and securely check out via our online secure checkout system. Buy your new AC and furnace system knowing that you've done all your homework before making such a huge purchase.
One of our focuses here at HVACDirect.com is to help our customers buy with confidence. We want you to know that, when you compare and shop for AC and furnace systems with us, you're not just buying a system blind. You're making an educated decision on an important purchase for your home. We have a trained staff of HVAC experts available by phone Monday through Saturday that can help you get whatever answers you need before making a decision to buy—even if you're starting with the basic question, what is central AC?
Central Air Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install central air and ductwork?
If you already have ductwork in place, total costs average out within a range of $2,800 - $6,500. A replacement central AC unit purchased online starts at $800, while a full central AC system costs between $1,800 - $4,000, depending on its size and efficiency. Installation can cost between $500 - $1,500. Installing new ductwork for the replacement AC unit would add another $3,000 to $10,000 to the total project cost, although most installments do not require new ductwork.
Does central air add value to a home?
Adding central air will increase your house's value by up to 10%. With the median home value in the U.S. of $250,000(1), that's an increase of $25,000 in home value. With an average central AC unit cost of $4,000 to $5,000 on average, including installation, a new central AC unit is a great investment for both long-term comfort and a short-term value boost for resale.
How long do central AC units last?
A well-maintained central air system usually lasts 12 to 15 years(2), though some can last up to 25 years. Make sure to schedule regular maintenance and tune-ups to ensure the maximum lifespan.
(1) Zillow. United States Home Prices & Values. Blog. SEO Article. Accessed 16 July 2020. https://www.zillow.com/home-values/
(2) SF Gate. How Long Will Home AC Last? Blog. SEO Article. Accessed 16 July 2020. Read here
![How Much Does It Cost to Install a Furnace and AC Unit [In 2024]](https://hvacdirect.com/media/wysiwyg/cost-to-install-furnace-and-ac-unit.png)
Central A/C Replacement Cost
What Is the Approximate Cost to Replace a Central Air System in Your House?
If you're thinking about replacing your central air system, but aren't sure what it's going to cost you, HVACDirect.com can help. Calculating the cost of central air replacement is probably one of the most essential steps during the process. In this article, we break the process into its two most important parts: determining what you need and determining the cost of what you need.
How to Determine What Central Air System You Need
The easiest way to choose a new AC system is to look at what equipment you already have. If you were happy with your home's comfort level when the equipment was working, you've got a great start. Look up the part number of your old air conditioning system as a starting point for shopping for a new AC system. Looking up the part number will provide information about tonnage, SEER rating, burner stages and more, helping you find the right replacement AC system.
If you weren't happy with your old system because it didn't keep your space cool enough, our central air system sizing guide can help you determine exactly what you need for your home to achieve maximum comfort. Just plug in your square footage, the type of system you need and the zone your home or business is located within. That's all you need to identify the type of central air system for your home. This, of course, is just a guide. The next step is to consult with a professional to ensure the system is exactly tailored to your specific needs.
How to Determine the Cost of Your New Central Air System
Now that you know what you need, it's time for you to decide what you're willing to spend. Step one in determining how much it is to install central AC is to consider tax credits and other associated rebates that may be associated with your purchase. Step two involves taking a good hard look at the amount of money you're willing to spend and then making an educated decision on the best and most efficient central air system for your dollar.
If you used our central air system calculator while completing the step we described above, then you've already seen the range of AC and furnace system options our online store has recommended for you. Wondering what to do next? You're not alone. Many customers can become overwhelmed at the number of options available. This is where our comparison tool comes into play. Keep in mind that the calculator is just an estimator for gauging price range and costs may vary depending on your specific needs and installation setup.
Using Our Central Air System Comparison Tool
The central air system comparison tool is one of the most under-appreciated tools available to you as a customer. Instructions on how to use the tool are very straightforward. Click the checkboxes on the central air systems you are interested in. Once you have a few options checked, click the Compare button located in the lower left of your screen.
You'll be taken to a comparison page, where you can compare and contrast things like AC and furnace system costs, SEER ratings, heating BTUs, tonnage and other important features of your new system.
Select Your Central Air System and Buy with Confidence
Once you've compared a few systems and found an AC & furnace system with the features you want at a cost that works for your budget, you're ready to buy! Add the central AC and furnace system you've selected to your cart and securely check out via our online secure checkout system. Buy your new AC and furnace system knowing that you've done all your homework before making such a huge purchase.
One of our focuses here at HVACDirect.com is to help our customers buy with confidence. We want you to know that, when you compare and shop for AC and furnace systems with us, you're not just buying a system blind. You're making an educated decision on an important purchase for your home. We have a trained staff of HVAC experts available by phone Monday through Saturday that can help you get whatever answers you need before making a decision to buy - even you're starting with the basic question, what is central AC?
Central Air Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install central air and ductwork?
If you already have ductwork in place, total costs average out within a range of $2,800 - $6,500. A replacement central AC unit purchased online starts at $800, while a full central AC system costs between $1,800 - $4,000, depending on its size and efficiency. Installation can cost between $500 - $1,500. Installing new ductwork for the replacement AC unit would add another $3,000 to $10,000 to the total project cost, although most installments do not require new ductwork.
Does central air add value to a home?
Adding central air will increase your house's value by up to 10%. With the median home value in the U.S. of $250,000(1), that's an increase of $25,000 in home value. With an average central AC unit cost of $4,000 to $5,000 on average, including installation, a new central AC unit is a great investment for both long-term comfort and a short-term value boost for resale.
How long do central AC units last?
A well-maintained central air system usually lasts 12 to 15 years(2), though some can last up to 25 years. Make sure to schedule regular maintenance and tune-ups to ensure the maximum lifespan.
(1) Zillow. United States Home Prices & Values. Blog. SEO Article. Accessed 16 July 2020. https://www.zillow.com/home-values/
(2) SF Gate. How Long Will Home AC Last? Blog. SEO Article. Accessed 16 July 2020. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/long-home-ac-last-82432.html#:~:text=The%20lifespan%20of%20a%20central%20air-conditioning%20unit%2C%20which,years%2C%20according%20to%20the%20federal%20government%27s%20Energy.gov%20website.
