AC/HVAC Cost Calculator (2026) | Free Estimate

How AC and HVAC Costs Are Calculated

AC/HVAC costs depend on whether you need a repair, a replacement, or a new installation. System type and efficiency rating are the two biggest cost drivers.

Repair Costs by Component

Refrigerant recharge: $200–$600. If your system needs frequent recharges, you have a leak that needs repair first ($200–$1,500).
Capacitor: $100–$300. Common failure, usually a quick fix.
Fan motor: $200–$600. Both condenser (outdoor) and blower (indoor) motors wear out after 10–15 years.
Compressor: $800–$2,800. The most expensive AC repair. Often triggers the replace-vs-repair decision on older units.

Replacement: System Types Compared

Central AC: $3,500–$10,000 installed. The standard choice for homes with existing ductwork. Efficiency rated in SEER2.
Heat pump: $4,500–$14,000 installed. Heats and cools, eliminating the need for a separate furnace in moderate climates. Qualifies for up to $2,000 in federal tax credits.
Ductless mini-split: $2,000–$13,000 installed. Ideal for homes without ductwork or for room additions. Multi-zone systems cost more but offer room-by-room temperature control.

SEER Ratings and Energy Savings

SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency. The federal minimum is now 14–15 SEER2 depending on your region. Each SEER point above the minimum saves roughly 7% on cooling costs. A 16 SEER2 unit costs 10–15% more than a 14 but saves $100–$200/year in energy — paying for itself in 5–8 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does AC repair cost?

Most AC repairs cost $100–$600 plus a service call fee of $75–$150. Common repairs include refrigerant recharge ($200–$600), capacitor ($100–$300), and fan motor ($200–$600). Compressor replacement is the most expensive at $800–$2,800.

How much does a new AC system cost?

A new central AC system costs $3,500–$10,000 including installation. Heat pumps cost $4,500–$14,000 and mini-splits cost $2,000–$13,000. Higher SEER ratings cost more but save on energy bills.

What SEER rating should I get?

The minimum SEER2 rating is now 14–15 depending on your region. Higher-efficiency models (16–22 SEER) cost 10–60% more but use significantly less energy. A 16 SEER unit uses about 15% less energy than a 14 SEER.

How long does an AC system last?

Central AC systems last 15–20 years, heat pumps 10–15 years, and mini-splits 15–20 years. Regular maintenance (annual tune-ups, filter changes) can extend lifespan significantly.

What size AC do I need?

AC size depends on home square footage, climate zone, insulation, and other factors. A general rule is 1 ton per 500–600 sq ft, but use our AC Sizing Calculator for a more precise estimate based on your specific home.

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