HVAC Replacement Cost Estimator

Pick your system type, enter your home's square footage, and get a low–high installed price range. The calculator sizes the system in tons (square feet ÷ 600 by default) and multiplies by fully editable equipment and labor rates — so you can match quotes from your own area. Everything runs in your browser; nothing is uploaded.

📖 How it works & FAQ

System type

Home size (sq ft)

Sq ft per ton (sizing rule)

AC equipment $ per ton — low

AC equipment $ per ton — high

AC install labor $ — low

AC install labor $ — high

Furnace unit $ — low

Furnace unit $ — high

Furnace install labor $ — low

Furnace install labor $ — high

Heat pump $ per ton — low

Heat pump $ per ton — high

Heat pump install labor $ — low

Heat pump install labor $ — high

Combo install labor discount %

How the estimate is built

Replacing an HVAC system comes down to two numbers: what the equipment costs and what the crew charges to install it. This calculator sizes your system first — cooling capacity is measured in tons, and a common rule of thumb is one ton per 600 square feet of living space (editable, since hot climates and leaky older homes often need one ton per 400–500 sq ft). The size is rounded up to the nearest half ton, because residential units are sold in half-ton steps.

Air conditioners and heat pumps are priced per ton at your editable low and high rates, while a furnace is priced as a single unit. Install labor is added on top as its own range, and when you replace the AC and furnace together, a combo discount trims the labor total, since the crew is already on site with everything opened up. All figures are estimates only, not professional or financial advice; real quotes vary by region, brand, efficiency rating, and ductwork condition.

How to use it

Choose your system type: full system (AC + furnace), central AC only, furnace only, or heat pump.
Enter your home’s square footage. The tool converts it to tons using the sizing rule, which you can adjust for your climate.
Tweak the equipment and labor ranges to match local quotes or a brand tier you’re considering — results update live.
Read the low–high installed total, plus the equipment and labor breakdown, and compare it against contractor bids.

FAQ

What does a ton mean in HVAC?: A ton is 12,000 BTU per hour of cooling capacity — nothing to do with weight. Most homes land between 1.5 and 5 tons.
Why is my quote higher than the estimate?: Quotes often include extras this tool doesn’t model: new ductwork, electrical upgrades, permits, thermostats, or high-SEER premium equipment. Raise the high-end rates to reflect them.
Is a heat pump cheaper than AC plus furnace?: Often, yes — one unit handles heating and cooling, and rebates or tax credits can lower the net price further. Compare both scenarios by switching the system type.
Does the tool send my numbers anywhere?: No. Everything runs in your browser; nothing is uploaded or stored.