Key takeaways
- Short answer: Replacing both the AC and furnace in an average-size home typically costs $7,000–$12,000.
- AC + furnace: $7,000–$12,000
- Often 3–4 tons for 2,000 sq ft
- Heat pump system: $5,000–$18,000+
- Typical hvac cost: $7,000–$12,000 for a combined AC and furnace replacement.
Cost by system type
| System | Typical installed cost |
|---|---|
| AC + furnace replacement | $7,000–$12,000 |
| Central AC only | $2,500–$9,000 |
| Furnace only | $2,000–$6,900 |
| Heat pump system | $5,000–$18,000+ |
Sizing a 2,000 sq ft home
A common rule of thumb is about one ton of cooling per 500–600 square feet, which points to roughly 3–4 tons. Insulation, windows, ceiling height and climate change the real number, so ask installers for a Manual J load calculation rather than a square-footage guess.
An oversized system short-cycles, wastes energy and dehumidifies poorly.
Related questions
Should I replace the AC and furnace together?
Often yes when both are 12–15+ years old; matched systems run efficiently and you pay for one installation.
How long does HVAC replacement take?
Most AC or furnace swaps take one day; a full system with new ductwork takes 2–5 days.
What drives HVAC replacement cost?
System type and efficiency, size, ductwork condition and installation complexity.
Other hvac questions homeowners ask
How much does a new AC unit cost for a 2,000 sq ft house?
Most 2,000 sq ft homes need a 3–4 ton system. A central AC replacement alone typically runs $2,500–$9,000 nationally, and replacing both the AC and furnace costs about $7,000–$12,000.
How much does an AC tune-up cost?
A tune-up typically costs about $75–$200 per visit. Many companies offer maintenance plans that bundle a spring AC and fall furnace check.
How long does an HVAC system last?
Furnaces typically last 15–20 years, and central air conditioners and heat pumps 10–15 years. Long cooling seasons and skipped maintenance shorten those lives.
HVAC at a glance
Timeline
Most AC or furnace swaps take one day. A full system with new ductwork takes 2–5 days.
Permits
Replacing an AC, heat pump or furnace usually needs a mechanical permit, and the installer normally pulls it.
DIY or pro?
Filters, clearing debris from the outdoor unit and flushing the condensate line are safe DIY jobs. Refrigerant, gas and electrical work need a licensed technician.
What HVAC repair and replacement costs
Replacing a central AC and furnace together typically costs $7,000–$12,000 installed. An AC alone runs about $2,500–$9,000 and a furnace $2,000–$6,900, depending on size, efficiency and brand. Most single repairs cost $250–$700.
Keep reading
Sources: PickHVAC — Furnace & AC replacement cost. Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.