How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost in 2024?

Summer heat waves and excessive humidity will no longer take a toll on your comfort with a new central AC, running at $4,740 on average. Based on the brand chosen and the capacity required, you can shell out from $2,560 to $7,900 to get a unit installed. If no ductwork is in place, your expenses can escalate to $14,800. The cost of an air conditioner usually lands between $1,100 and $6,000, excluding installation. 

The price of installing an air conditioner

Central Air Unit Cost Breakdown 

Air conditioning options go far beyond those you see in ads. Hence, you should better not fall for a random, so to say, ‘ideal’ unit you come across online. Not only does an air conditioner have to fit your budget, but it also has to be efficient enough to meet your home’s specific cooling needs. Below, we’ll highlight aspects you should consider when making the final decision and how different choices can affect your expenditure. 

Want your AC choice to balance upfront costs, energy efficiency, and operational longevity? Stop by MyHomeQuote to locate knowledgeable HVAC contractors who can give you advice and provide custom estimates. Fill out the request form below to get going.  

New Air Conditioner Cost by Unit Size

The installation of a brand-new AC unit can cost $2,000 or $8,100, depending on its size. The latter implies its cooling capacity measured in tons or output evaluated in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The appropriate size of an AC unit is determined by the area you need to cool. A one-ton system (approximately 12,000 BTUs) can handle one ton of air in an hour. 

Selecting an adequately sized AC unit is vital for cost efficiency. An undersized unit is more likely to overwork, struggle to keep your home cool, and develop maintenance issues over time. On the other hand, an oversized unit can lead to unnecessary power consumption, inflating your energy bills and shortening the unit’s lifespan. The rule of thumb is to allocate about 20 BTUs per square foot of space in mild climates. Those living in Texas, California, or Florida may need an AC with a higher capacity. 

The air conditioner cost by unit size

New AC Unit Cost by SEER Rating

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating indicates how efficiently a unit operates and whether you’ll shell out between $2,000 and $6,300 or $6,200 to $11,000 for its installation. A higher SEER rating typically means a higher initial AC unit price but lower energy costs afterward. Regulations of the Energy Information Administration stipulate a minimum SEER rating of 14 for air conditioners in the northern states and 15 in the southern regions. Notably, installation costs for central AC units correlate with their efficiency levels.

The AC unit replacement cost by SEER rating

Central Air Unit Cost by Home Size

Installing a central AC can cost $2.95 to $7.30 per square foot. Hence, your home size does matter. While an AC with a SEER rating of 16 to 18 is usually suitable for most regions, homeowners in hot states should choose units with higher efficiency ratings that can handle heat with no pressure. Thus, if your property has 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, your expenses can land between $4,400 and $14,000. Larger homes may call for dual condenser units for the most satisfying results. 

The price of installing an air conditioner by home size

Cost of a New Air Conditioner by Type

Depending on whether you choose a portable air conditioner, window unit, or gas pack system, you can fork out $90 to $12,000 per AC. Each option has its own set of installation requirements and efficiency levels, which influence the initial investment and ongoing operating costs. Below, we’ll break down the average AC cost to help you single out the most befitting variant for your home cooling needs and budget constraints.

Central AC Unit

A central AC unit costs from $1,000 to $5,500 on average for a unit alone. If you live in a warm or hot US state with medium humidity, this can become the best bet due to its efficiency in cooling and dehumidifying the air. There are three types to choose from:

• Single-stage AC. It is the most budget-friendly option, operating at full capacity.
• Two-stage AC. This option can operate at two different capacities—full and 60% to 70%—offering quieter operation but a higher initial cost. 
• Variable-speed AC. It represents the crème de la crème of all central AC models, as it offers the greatest flexibility in operation and the lowest operational costs.

Hence, the answer to “How much does central air cost?” depends on your chosen model. It’s worth requesting quotes for all the options to discover the outlay for your home. 

Window AC Unit

If you keep a single sunlight-exposed room cool during summer months, pay heed to window AC units, with prices landing between $145 and $860, excluding installation. Your outlay will hinge on the brand, dimensions, cooling capacity, and extra features of the unit. Seasoned DIYers can undertake its installation hands-down. Window ACs are designed to fit securely in a window opening for external heat expulsion. 

Portable AC Unit

A budget of $220 to $900 is enough to get a portable AC. Even though its cooling capacity is limited to one room, like a window counterpart, it offers more flexibility. You can move it around the house when it serves and store it away when it doesn’t. The scope of delivery usually includes wheels and tubing so that you can get your AC up and running from the outset, as no installation services are required. Depending on the model you go for, you can cool up to 1,000 square feet.  

Heat Pump

Depending on whether you choose a mini-split, multi-split, or centrally ducted system, your expenditure can fall between $2,100 and $4,650. Models differ in configuration, energy source, and cost-effectiveness. Whatever model you choose, a heat pump will function effectively as both a cooling and heating system throughout the year.

Ductless Split System

You can keep your home cool without paying through the nose for new ductwork installation with a ductless mini-split AC, running between $1,500 and $11,000. The price is shaped by the BTU capacity, brand, SEER rating, and the number of zones. Depending on the number of air handlers it incorporates (up to five), you can use it in one room or entire house. 

Gas Pack HVAC System

Installing a gas pack system allows for doing two things in one go with less upfront investment—from $2,900 to $6,000. However, such options may incur higher maintenance costs over time due to weather exposure. A gas pack system integrates an air conditioner and a gas furnace into one outdoor unit, making it an effective space-saving option for small homes in mild climates.

The price of installing an air conditioner by type

AC Unit Prices by Brand

A name engraved on the AC unit can significantly influence its installation cost, boosting it from $2,100 to $9,000. Big names offer models at higher prices, which can escalate further once you opt for high-efficiency units or decide to integrate new ductwork. However, you shouldn’t fall for a brand name alone or higher price points, as they don’t guarantee superior quality. You can pay over the odds for reputation and service rather than made-to-last AC components. 

Willing to find out the cost of central air for a 1,200-sq-ft house produced under the umbrella of a few specific brands? Are you curious about what manufacturers produce ideal AC units for your climate? MyHomeQuote is here to connect you with reputable HVAC experts in your neighborhood. Leave your request in the form below, and you are good to go. 

The price of installing an air conditioner by brand

Same BTU, Different AC Name: How Much Does It Cost to Install a Central Air Conditioner? 

If you are in the market for a new AC, it is worth comparing multiple options with the same characteristics instead of getting the first suitable one. For example, the price of a 5-ton AC unit can be twice or even three times higher at different companies. How come? Not only do brands make allowances for the system’s efficiency and durability, but they also count on additional services offered, like warranty and maintenance, along with a good reputation in the field. Let’s discover the cost of a 2-ton AC unit and its alternatives produced under diverse names. 

The central AC price comparison

Labor Cost to Install an AC Unit

The average labor cost for setting up a central air conditioning system ranges from $700 to $2,500. You can expect service fees to account for 42% to 60% of the budget, as professionals generally bill between $80 and $250 per hour. The exact rate is influenced by the intricacy of the job and the contractor’s reputation. Plus, charges can escalate for short-notice work, especially in the high-demand seasons. Please note that the answer to “How much to install a central air conditioner in labor?” will depend on whether reliable ductwork is in place.

Additional Factors Affecting the Price of AC Installation

Choosing a portable AC is the only way to eliminate installation costs. However, all ACs require professional assistance to some extent. Additional services might be necessary to ensure your brand-new AC system works like a well-oiled machine. 

Current System Removal

If it’s not your first-ever AC, you need to get rid of the outdated unit, with removal services running from $55 to $200. The process involves safely disposing of refrigerant and other materials, which can pose environmental risks if not handled correctly. Local authorities determine the Freon extraction fees. 

Ductwork Repair

An uncompromising functioning of your home’s ductwork is a must when installing a new air conditioner. If the existing ducts are outdated or have leaks, you may spend from $220 to $1,000 on repairs, depending on the damage extent. Additional costs may arise if mold or asbestos is found during repairs, as removing these hazardous materials requires specialized abatement services.

Obtaining Permits

Most states mandate permits for HVAC installations to ensure your system complies with local codes. Fees for simply replacing an AC unit range from $100 to $260, while those for new installations involving ductwork can cost between $250 and $1,600. You should check your city’s permit requirements to avoid any legal or regulatory issues.

Zoning 

Installing a zoned HVAC system can significantly enhance energy efficiency and comfort in larger homes, with costs ranging from $1,700 to $4,500. This system allows you to control the temperature independently in different areas of your home, reducing the need for a larger, more costly AC unit and cutting down on overall energy expenses. You can avoid unnecessary energy consumption by only cooling or heating rooms that are in use. 

Electrical & Plumbing Work

Some plumbing and electrical modifications may be necessary when setting up a new AC system in an older property. Installation or repair of drain lines and electrical upgrades can cost $100 to $150. Qualified experts can charge more for tricky tasks. 

The price of installing an air conditioner by extra services

Takeaway

When planning to get a spic-and-span AC unit, take your time to answer, “How much is a new AC unit?” in terms of the upfront costs and the potential for long-term savings. Pay heed to each model’s capacity, efficiency, brand, and whether ductwork needs installation or modification. While more efficient units are more costly initially, they can significantly reduce your energy bills over time. Consulting with a professional HVAC technician can clarify what system size and efficiency level are ideal for your home so that you can prevent overspending on an oversized unit.