Many homeowners rely on their HVAC system year-round, especially during the summer and winter months. The thought of it breaking down and having to replace it can be nerve-racking, especially during a hot or cold spell. If you have a unit that is becoming undependable, or if you need an HVAC repair or HVAC replacement right now, you’re in the right place.
We’ll dive into all the things you need to know about HVAC replacement, from cost ranges to insights that can help you determine if a replacement is necessary.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace an HVAC System?
The potential cost to repair or replace your HVAC unit can range up to $6,000* for an individual unit to up to $34,000 for a whole new system** if you don't have a home warranty.
If it looks like you need an entirely new HVAC unit, it’s a pretty sure bet you’ll be spending thousands. Some factors that influence your overall HVAC system costs include:
- The type and size of the unit that you need
- The type of fuel that is required for the unit
- Whether you need additional HVAC repairs, replacements, or additions (such as ductwork)
- The energy efficiency of the unit
HVAC service costs are one of the priciest when it comes to heating units or AC replacements. Expect about a third of the price of installing a new unit to go to labor. Depending on where you live, you may be able to save on HVAC installation costs in the winter, when fewer people are having air conditioners installed (or in the summer for heating units).
How Do You Know if You Should Replace Your HVAC System?
It may be obvious that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. Your unit may be making unnatural sounds or has needed several repairs over the past couple of years. Or maybe it’s not so obvious: Your energy bills may be costing more than they usually do this time of year, or you’re finding yourself constantly adjusting the thermostat. This can be especially frustrating when trying to stay cool during a heat wave or warm during the winter.
Even if you perform regular DIY HVAC inspections, it’s not always easy to know when exactly your HVAC system needs an upgrade. But there are some common signs that it’s time for an HVAC replacement, or at the very least, an HVAC tune-up:
- Weak airflow from the vents
- Grinding, squealing, grating, or other weird sounds
- Blowing warm air instead of cool or cool air instead of hot air
- Moisture where it shouldn’t be, either from a leak in the outdoor unit or increased humidity in the ductwork
- Smelly ductwork. Mildew or mold smells are common if the ductwork is getting moist, but burning smells are also a warning signal that your A/C or heating unit could be dangerously malfunctioning.
