HVAC System Replacement Cost (Updated For 2023)
One of the most common questions we get related to heating and cooling systems is, “how much does it cost to replace an HVAC system?”
While it would be relatively easy to provide a quick price range based on a wide variety of factors, we’ll outline here many of the factors that contribute to HVAC system cost so you’ll have a better idea of how much your replacement HVAC system may cost.
DIRECT REPLACEMENT
For this article, we’ll focus primarily on a direct replacement which would be functionally the same as your old HVAC system. Expect considerably higher overall costs if you’re considering changing system types – for example, going from a heat pump with electric backup to a gas furnace.
HVAC SYSTEM TYPES
There are a few different types of heating and cooling systems with the most common being heat pump + electric, or air conditioning with natural gas, or propane furnaces. When it comes to evaluating the replacement cost, there is minimal difference among these common types. Alternative types such as gas or oil-fired boilers or geothermal systems are considerably more expensive.
TYPICAL HVAC SYSTEM PRICES
To simplify some of the HVAC choices, which also drives the cost, we categories HVAC systems into three feature groups:
System Size vs. Cost
Its important to get the HVAC unit sized appropriately for your home. The cooling needs for your home will drive the system size (and therefore the cost). If your home is older, has poor insulation, or lots of windows, the heating and cooling needs would be greater than a more efficient home.
You’ll commonly see system sizes referred to in tons, which simply refers to the cooling capacity where 1 ton = 12,000 BTU.
Your home may also have multiple zones, which is a separate HVAC system for different parts of your home.

*The prices in the chart above include materials and equipment only and excludes labor. See below for more details about labor & installation costs.
INSTALLATION VARIABLES
When looking at HVAC cost, the cost of the equipment is only part of the story. What makes quoting HVAC systems particularly difficult are the wide variety of factors that go into an HVAC system’s installation.
Here are just a few of the big items we’ll need to consider when quoting your specific installation:



SIMPLIFYING THE COMPLEXITIES
At James River Air, we’re experts in heating and cooling systems. First and foremost, we want to make sure you’re comfortable in your home year-round. Having a heating and cooling system that is designed and installed properly is critical for year-round comfort. The age and construction of your home will factor into the size and type of HVAC system that will provide optimum comfort.
Schedule a free in-home consultation to have one of our HVAC professionals evaluate your home’s specific HVAC needs.
BOLT ON ITEMS & UPGRADES
Your existing system may already have some of these upgrades, and you may choose to keep, eliminate or add any of these options during your system replacement.
Whole-Home Air Purification – specialty filters can purify air to eliminate pollution, allergens, and in some cases even harmful viruses or bacteria. Ask one of our experts about options for whole-home air purification. Prices for whole-home air purification range from $500 to $1200
Humidification – During the winter months the humidity is generally lower and your heating system can contribute even further to dry indoor air. Having the proper humidity level in your home leads to comfort and can even save you money. Indoor humidity makes the air feel warmer so you may be able to lower your thermostat 1-2 degrees. Prices for humidification systems range from $900 to $3000
Dehumidification – While air conditioning systems provide some level of dehumidification, our hot and humid summers put a lot of pressure on an air conditioning system. An added dehumidification system will help your air conditioner run more effectively by reducing the humidity level in your home. Prices for dehumidification systems range from $2800-$5200
As you can see, there are many factors that go into the cost of and HVAC system replacement. Our goals is to provide professional consultation and guidance so you’ll end up with the optimal system that adds to your year-round comfort while also meeting your budget.
For service in the greater Richmond, Virginia area, contact our team today. You’ll be glad you did.