How Much Does AC Replacement Cost in Phoenix? [2025 Data]

Phoenix, Arizona, is the hottest city in the U.S., so homeowners here know the importance of having working air conditioning. In order to beat the heat, Phoenix residents can expect to spend $6,892 for AC replacement, with the total cost ranging from $5,091 to $8,837. Larger homes require more powerful AC systems and more ductwork, so the cost will be higher. Smaller homes or simpler AC units, like a portable AC or a ductless system, cost less. The SEER rating of your unit also affects the total cost.

AC Replacement Cost Factors

AC replacement in Phoenix averages $6,892, but the total cost can range widely from $2,500 to $12,700 depending on the type and size of the unit, how efficient it is, and even the amount of space you need to cool.

Home Size

The bigger your home, the more cooling power you’ll need, meaning you’ll spend more to replace AC in a 3,000-square-foot home compared to a 1,200-square-foot home. The median home size in Phoenix is 2,260 square feet.

AC Unit Size

The size of your AC unit is measured by tonnage, or how much heat it can remove in one hour, which is then expressed as British Thermal Units (BTUs). 

Bigger is not always better—the appropriate tonnage and BTU rating of your AC should match the size of your home. In Phoenix, one tonnage per 500 square feet is a general estimate, with most homes requiring 2 to 5 tons. Consult with an AC installer in Phoenix, Arizona, to determine what size AC you need.

Type of AC

Central AC is common in Phoenix because it reliably cools the entire home. However, you can also consider alternatives like window units, portable AC, or even a ductless system. The type of AC you choose will impact the cost.

Efficiency (SEER)

With temperatures that average over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, Phoenix households should prioritize energy-efficient units to keep cooling costs down. For AC units, efficiency is measured by SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. In Phoenix, the SEER must be at least 14, as required by the U.S. Department of Energy.

The more efficient the unit, the more it will cost up front. However, you’ll save more in the long run.

HVAC Pro Costs

As a major city, Phoenix has slightly higher costs for materials and labor compared to smaller cities or rural areas. Plus, you’ll need to consult the City of Phoenix Planning & Development Department and Office of the Ombudsman for building codes and permits. 

Here are the costs you can expect for hiring a pro for your AC replacement in Phoenix:

Labor

The cost to hire an AC pro in Phoenix is $1,500 to $4,000 total. Pros commonly charge $80 to $150 per hour. Consider whether repairing versus replacing your AC is a better deal. If repairs cost more than 50% of the cost of a replacement, it’s time to invest in a new system.

Permits

Phoenix bases permit costs on the total cost of the project. Costs include a base fee of $150 for projects up to $1,000, plus another $9 for every $1,000 in the cost of the project up to $10,000.

So, if your AC replacement cost in Phoenix, Arizona, totals $5,000, you’d spend $186 on permits. However, check with your HVAC pro or the city to determine the exact total based on your specific project.

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring

You’re not likely to need additional services when you just have your AC replaced. However, if you’re upgrading from a handful of window units to central AC, for example, you’ll need some electrical and plumbing work for a more powerful system.

• Electrician: An AC system has to work really hard in Phoenix to keep your home’s interior cool. Hire a local electrician to make sure your AC is on a dedicated circuit with enough power, up to 60 amps, to effectively cool your home. Hiring an electrician in Phoenix costs $164 to $567.

• Plumber: Your AC system needs a drain line to prevent condensation from leaking into your unit or your home. An HVAC pro often handles drain line installation. However, you may need to hire a plumber to assist. Hiring a plumber in Phoenix costs $198 to $585.

Does AC Replacement Increase Home Value?

If your AC replacement involves a new central AC unit or a ductless system, it can increase the value of your home by up to 10% in Phoenix’s hot desert climate. Adding an AC has an ROI of 30%. However, installing a window unit or portable system won’t add to your home’s value.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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