How Much Does HVAC Repair & Replacement Cost in 2026?

From simple repairs to full system replacements — know what to expect before you call.

Average cost: $150 – $600 (national average $375).

Cost breakdown

• AC Repair (common): $150–$600 — Capacitor, contactor, fan motor
• Furnace Repair: $150–$500 — Ignitor, blower motor, thermocouple
• AC Replacement: $3,000–$7,000 — Central AC unit + installation
• Furnace Replacement: $2,500–$6,000 — Gas or electric
• Heat Pump Install: $4,000–$8,000 — Dual-function heating/cooling
• Duct Cleaning: $300–$700 — Full system cleaning
• Thermostat Install: $150–$400 — Smart thermostat + wiring
• Refrigerant Recharge: $200–$600 — Depends on refrigerant type

What changes the price

• System Type (High impact) — Central AC, heat pumps, and mini-splits have very different cost profiles.
• System Age (High impact) — Systems over 15 years may need replacement rather than repair.
• Refrigerant Type (Medium impact) — R-22 (Freon) is phased out and extremely expensive. R-410A is standard.
• Ductwork Condition (Medium impact) — Leaky or undersized ducts can increase costs and reduce efficiency.

Regional pricing

• Northeast: $85–$175/hr
• West Coast: $80–$170/hr
• Midwest: $70–$140/hr
• South: $65–$135/hr
• Mountain West: $70–$145/hr

How to pay less

• Schedule maintenance before summer and winter to avoid emergency rates
• Replace filters monthly for 15–30% energy savings
• If your system is 15+ years old, compare repair cost vs. replacement
• Ask about rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades
• Get a load calculation before sizing a new system

Get free quotes from local pros