HVAC Replacement Cost Calculator

Plan an HVAC replacement budget using home size, system type, efficiency level and installation complexity.

Free planning estimate

Calculate your HVAC replacement range

Use home size, system type, ductwork and local cost level to build a planning range.

Home size (sq. ft.)
System type
Ductwork
Local cost level

Estimated project range

Enter your project details

Permits, electrical upgrades, refrigerant lines, duct conditions and equipment availability can change the final price.

What moves HVAC pricing?

Equipment capacity, efficiency rating, ductwork, electrical work, refrigerant lines, permits and local labor conditions can all affect installed cost.

2026 U.S. HVAC replacement benchmark

Angi reports that HVAC replacement commonly falls between about $5,000 and $22,000 in 2026, with an average around $7,500. A straightforward replacement can stay near the lower or middle part of the range, while new ductwork, higher-efficiency equipment, zoning, filtration, electrical upgrades, or other changes can push the project higher.

What the calculator considers

Approximate conditioned home size
System type, including central systems, heat pumps, mini-splits, and higher-efficiency equipment
Whether the existing ductwork is usable
A broad local-market adjustment

Why square footage is only a starting point

A properly sized HVAC system is not selected from square footage alone. Climate zone, insulation, windows, air leakage, ceiling height, orientation, occupancy, and duct condition all affect heating and cooling load. A contractor may use a Manual J load calculation or another accepted sizing method before choosing equipment.

Potential extras to budget for

Permits, new thermostats, condensate drainage, electrical upgrades, refrigerant lines, duct repairs, insulation, zoning, filtration, equipment pads, crane access, and old-system removal can all change the installed price.

How to use the result

Treat the result as a pre-quote planning range. Compare several local proposals and check that each contractor is quoting comparable system capacity, efficiency, warranty, duct scope, permits, and controls.

Reference: Angi — HVAC Replacement Cost, 2026.

HVAC replacement cost FAQ

Does a bigger home always need a bigger HVAC system?

Usually, but not by square footage alone. Insulation, windows, air leakage, climate and duct condition affect the heating and cooling load.

Does replacing ductwork change the budget?

Yes. Major duct replacement can add several thousand dollars and can turn a simple equipment swap into a larger project.