HVAC Cost Calculator
Heating and cooling costs — tune-ups to full system installs. Answer 4 quick questions for an instant estimate tuned to your state.
Where's the project located?
Labor and material costs vary a lot by state — this tunes your estimate to your market.
We use regional cost factors so a project in California doesn't get a Mississippi price.
What project are you planning?
Tap the one that matches your project.
What type of system?
System type affects equipment and labor costs.
How complex is your project?
Tricky conditions and custom work take more labor.
Why this estimate?
Typically included
May cost extra
Estimates start from national-average project costs (updated Oct 2026), then adjust for your state's labor and material rates, plus your quality and complexity choices. Always get 3+ written quotes — this is for planning, not a bid.
Get quotes from local HVAC prosWhat affects hvac costs in 2026?
HVAC costs in 2026: a tune-up runs $75–$200, typical AC repairs $150–$900, and full system replacement $7,000–$15,000 depending on system type and home size. A standalone AC unit replacement is $4,000–$10,000, furnace repair $200–$700, and duct cleaning $300–$650.
System type and efficiency (SEER rating) are the primary price drivers — a basic 14-SEER unit costs thousands less than a 20-SEER variable-speed system, though the efficient unit pays back in energy savings. Home size and ductwork condition determine capacity needs; undersized ductwork often needs modification during replacement. Refrigerant type also matters as older R-22 systems phase out.
The classic decision is repair vs. replace: if the repair costs more than half the replacement price and the unit is over 10–12 years old, replacement usually wins. Get quotes in the off-season (spring/fall) when HVAC companies discount, and ask about utility rebates and tax credits for high-efficiency systems — they can shave $500–$2,000 off.
Typical HVAC project costs
| Project | Typical range |
|---|---|
| AC tune-up / maintenance Seasonal inspection and cleaning to keep the system efficient. | $75 – $200 |
| AC repair / troubleshooting | $150 – $900 |
| Furnace repair Common fixes: ignitor, blower motor, thermostat issues. | $200 – $700 |
| AC unit replacement New condenser + air handler. SEER rating affects price. | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Full HVAC system install Furnace + AC together. Most efficient when replaced as a pair. | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| Duct cleaning Whole-house duct cleaning for average-sized homes. | $300 – $650 |
How we estimate costs
Cost ranges in this calculator start from typical U.S. homeowner project costs compiled from contractor rate surveys, material pricing data, and published project cost databases (base data updated Oct 2026). Your estimate is then adjusted three ways: a regional factor for your state's labor and material rates (e.g. California runs ~22% above the national average, Mississippi ~15% below), your quality choice, and project complexity.
Important: this is an educational estimate, not a quote. Actual prices vary significantly by location, contractor, material choices, and site conditions. Always get at least three written quotes from licensed contractors before starting a project.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a typical hvac project cost?
It depends on the project. For example, ac tune-up / maintenance typically runs $75–$200, while duct cleaning ranges from $300 to $650. Use the calculator above for an estimate based on your project, finish, and complexity.
How accurate is this cost calculator?
These ranges start from national-average prices homeowners actually pay (base data updated Oct 2026), then adjust for your state's labor and material rates, your material quality choice, and project complexity. That gets you much closer than a flat national number — but your local market, home size, and site conditions still matter. Always get at least 3 written quotes before committing.
Why do contractor quotes vary so much?
Labor rates differ by region, overhead varies between solo operators and large firms, and material quality tiers change the price significantly. A quote 30–50% below the average is a red flag — it often means cut corners or missing line items.
Should I choose the cheapest quote?
Not necessarily. Compare what's included: materials, warranty length, timeline, and cleanup. The middle quote from a well-reviewed contractor is usually the best value.