How Much Does a New Furnace and AC Cost? [2026 Data]

The cost to replace a furnace and air conditioning at once is $7,500 on average but could range from $5,000 and $12,500. If your air conditioner has quit, but the furnace still works (or vice versa), it's tempting to just replace the appliance that’s broken. However, getting AC and furnace replacement at one time—even if one is still working—can save energy and money over the long term. Read on to learn about the clear advantages and potential setbacks for your home and wallet if you get AC and furnace replacement at one time.

Cost to Replace AC and Furnace at the Same Time

Furnace and AC replacement costs vary. A new furnace costs $4,800 on average, with an average range between $2,800 and $6,900. The cost to install a new AC unit is between $3,900 and $8,000 on average. However, the cost of a new HVAC system together is $7,500 on average, often in the range of $5,000 to $12,500. 

You could save money by having a contractor install both appliances all at once. Sometimes you can even snag a deal by buying a heater and air conditioner at the same time as a pair versus buying them separately at different times.

Furnace and AC Replacement Cost Factors 

Several factors impact the cost of replacing your HVAC system, including the type of HVAC system you get, the size of the unit you need, the brand of appliances you buy, and who you hire to do the job.

Type of HVAC System

There are four types of HVAC systems, including split systems, duct-free systems, hybrid systems, and packaged heating and air systems. The typical cost ranges for each are:

• Split systems: $3,800–$7,500

• Duct-free systems: $2,000–$14,500

• Hybrid systems: $2,500–$10,000

• Packaged heating and air systems: $10,000–$14,000

Unit Size

The square footage of your house will determine what size furnace and air conditioner you need to heat or cool your space efficiently. A local HVAC company can help you determine what size you need exactly by doing a load calculation.

Unit Brand

An HVAC system costs about $4,750 on average, but the brand you buy can change this number. For example, brands like Amana or Coleman tend to come in the lower end of the spectrum at $3,000, while brands Trane and York are often $6,000 or more.

Labor

The cost of labor to install a new HVAC system is around $1,500 alone, but this number can fluctuate a bit from company to company. Request a quote from a few different HVAC companies to get an idea of what you’ll spend and compare your options.

Why You Should Hire a HVAC Pro

HVAC system work involves elements that are not DIY-friendly—including gas, high-voltage, refrigerants, ductwork, and permits. Replacing a furnace or central air system is best left to a licensed crew. Consult an HVAC contractor near you for accurate pricing.

Here’s Why It’s Ideal to Hire an HVAC Pro

Replacing both furnace and AC systems together takes precision. A HVAC contractor will match the furnace and air conditioner so they work efficiently, meet building codes, and deliver the right comfort for your home.

• Pros perform load calculations and match furnace, coil, and condenser so SEER/AFUE targets are achieved.

• Coordinating both installations at once streamlines duct/vent, electrical, and gas work, reducing the cost of total labor.

• Installation by a licensed pro protects warranties and ensures permits, inspections, and safety standards are met.

• Pros tune a shared blower/air handler to the new equipment for quieter operation, balanced airflow, and reliable dehumidification.

• A professional installation helps homeowners cut utility costs because when done correctly, these systems need fewer repairs over their service life.

Benefits of Replacing Your Furnace and AC at the Same Time 

Two new systems can equal one comfortable home. Here are some of the advantages of installing a new furnace and air conditioning system at the same time:

1. HVAC Energy Efficiency

The heating and air conditioning systems manufactured today are highly efficient and use much less energy than systems built just 10 to 15 years ago. You can easily compare the efficiency of different air conditioning systems as you research by checking the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. The higher the SEER, the less energy they use and the lower the cost to operate.

As of January 2023, AC units in northern states have a minimum requirement of 14 SEER, and in southern states, that minimum is 15 SEER, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). So if you’re going to get a new AC soon, you’ll need a unit with one of these higher SEER ratings to ensure you don’t have another replacement on your hands soon.

The DOE's official rating system for furnaces is annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), a measure of seasonal performance. In general, an AFUE of 90% or higher is recommended for a new, efficient furnace system. Boilers and heat pump systems will have a slightly different recommended number.

On average, a modern furnace will last 15 to 20 years, and a central air conditioning system will last 12 to 15 years, depending on the quality and efficiency of the equipment.

2. Furnace and AC Performance

Mixing and matching a new system with an old, inefficient system could potentially decrease the lifespan of the new system you just invested in. By replacing just one part of your overall HVAC system, you effectively lower the performance of both appliances. When you couple a new, highly efficient system with an older one, you won't utilize the new technology to its full potential.

Also, make sure you fully understand your warranty. In some cases, manufacturers are not obligated to honor warranties of new systems that are combined with older systems if they break down during the warranty period. Replacing both systems at the same time will ensure you have the protection of your warranty if you should need it.

3. Matched HVAC Systems Complement Each Other

A furnace system and central air conditioning system share the same air handler, also called a blower. A matched system with an efficient handler will allow both systems to operate properly, giving you the home comfort you need.

4. Cost Savings Over Time

You'll save money with a matched system because all components work together for maximum efficiency over time. If repairs are necessary, both systems will be under warranty (and overall, new systems will require fewer repairs). The installation process will also tend to be less complicated and involved. For example, by replacing the air conditioner and waiting to replace the heating system, you will likely have to pay the cost of furnace installation later when it’s time to replace it, whereas installing them together will likely cost less in total.

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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