Cost Guide
HVAC Cost Guide: 2026 Pricing
HVAC pricing took another step up this year. Refrigerant changes, higher SEER2 standards, and steady labor demand are all pushing numbers higher than they were even 18 months ago. Here's where most homeowners should land in 2026.
| Service | 2026 National Average |
|---|---|
| Service call / diagnostic | $95 to $200 |
| AC tune-up (annual) | $95 to $200 |
| Furnace tune-up (annual) | $120 to $250 |
| Capacitor replacement | $200 to $475 |
| Refrigerant recharge (per lb, R-410A) | $120 to $250 |
| Blower motor replacement | $500 to $1,400 |
| Evaporator coil replacement | $1,200 to $2,800 |
| AC compressor replacement | $1,800 to $3,800 |
| New furnace (80% AFUE, install) | $3,800 to $6,500 |
| Full system replacement (3 ton) | $8,500 to $16,000 |
| Heat pump (cold-climate, install) | $11,000 to $22,000 |
What moves the price
- System size. Tonnage should match a real Manual J load calculation, not a rule of thumb. Oversizing wastes money for 15 years.
- Efficiency rating. A 14.3 SEER2 base unit is far cheaper than a 20+ SEER2 variable-speed system, but the operating cost difference can be huge.
- Refrigerant type. The R-410A phase-down is making older parts pricier. New systems on R-454B install fine but need trained techs.
- Ductwork condition. Leaky ducts kill efficiency. A new system on bad ducts won't perform as promised.
- Local rebates. Federal tax credits, utility rebates, and state programs can knock thousands off heat pump pricing.
Get at least three written estimates. The middle bid usually wins on value. Browse HVAC pros in your state above.
