The average full HVAC system replacement (furnace + AC) costs $5,000–$12,000 installed through a contractor. A furnace-only replacement runs $3,000–$6,000. An AC-only replacement runs $4,000–$8 ,000. Here's what's fair, what's a rip-off, and how to cut those numbers significantly.
What Drives the Cost
Equipment cost: The actual furnace or AC unit. This is where the biggest markup lives. A Goodman 96% AFUE furnace that wholesales for $700–$900 can be bundled into a $5,000 contractor quote with no line-item breakdown.
Buy the same name-brand HVAC system the pros install — shipped factory-direct to your door. No middleman, free delivery, 5-star rated, and financing available.
Labor: A standard furnace swap (same location, existing ductwork) runs $800–$1,500 in labor. A new system install with new ductwork runs $2,000–$4,000 in labor. Labor is relatively fair — equipment markup is where homeowners get burned.
Permits and disposal: $150–$400 depending on your municipality. Legitimate contractors pull permits. If yours doesn't, that's a red flag.
2026 HVAC Replacement Cost Breakdown
| Job Type | Contractor Quote | Factory-Direct + Labor | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas furnace swap (80% AFUE) | $3,000–$4,500 | $1,500–$2,500 | $1,500–$2,000 |
| Gas furnace swap (96% AFUE) | $4,000–$6,000 | $2,000–$3,500 | $2,000–$2,500 |
| Central AC replacement | $4,500–$8,000 | $2,500–$4,500 | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Full system (furnace + AC) | $8,000–$14,000 | $4,000–$7,500 | $4,000–$6,500 |
Warning Signs You're Overpaying
• Quote is bundled with no equipment/labor breakdown
• Contractor won't tell you the brand and model of equipment
• Strong pressure to upgrade to a premium brand or higher efficiency
• Quote significantly higher than others without explanation
• No permit mentioned
How to Pay Less
Buy your equipment factory-direct from Furnace Direct and hire a local licensed installer for labor only. You'll know exactly what you paid for equipment and pay a fair rate for installation. Most homeowners save $2,000–$4,000 using this approach.
See factory-direct HVAC equipment prices at Furnace Direct.
Get wholesale pricing for your home.
Real numbers on a new furnace, AC, or heat pump — shipped direct to your door anywhere in the lower 48. No contractor markup, no obligation.