- Updated October 26, 2026
- Kenneth Carpenter
Your HVAC Replacement Cost Guide 2026
Real installed prices from a family-owned Texas HVAC company.
An HVAC system replacement costs the average homeowner $6,820 to $12,757.
HVAC Replacement Cost By Tonnage
One thing that is easy to overlook when homeowners are setting a budget for a new HVAC installation is the size of the system. HVAC system prices can have a nearly $3,800 difference in cost depending on the tonnage you need. A 2-ton Carrier Comfort HVAC replacement costs around $8,921, while a 5-ton system will run closer to $12,757. The below grid will help give you a better idea of the cost to replace an HVAC system based on the size and type you need. Anything larger than 5 tons is typically going to be a commercial system.
| Complete HVAC System By Size | Carrier Comfort Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 Ton HVAC Cost | $8,921 to $10,209 |
| 2.5 Ton HVAC Cost | $9,713 to $10,461 |
| 3 Ton HVAC Cost | $10,095 to $10,720 |
| 3.5 Ton HVAC Cost | $10,951 to $11,526 |
| 4 Ton HVAC Cost | $11,654 to $12,131 |
| 5 Ton HVAC Cost | $12,480 to $12,757 |
Price Per Ton Break Out
In determining the appropriate size of your HVAC system for your home, we consider several factors including the size of your home, the level of insulation in your home and the amount of sun exposure your home receives. Using 1 ton of cooling per 500 sq ft of heated space as a rough estimate, a 1,500 sq ft home typically needs a 3-ton system. A 3-ton Carrier Comfort system costs between $10,095 and $10,720 installed. A 2,000 sq ft home usually needs about 4 tons, which runs $11,654 to $12,131. Every home is different, though, and the only way to size your system correctly is with a heat load calculation, which we do on every replacement quote.
HVAC Replacement Prices By Brand
Choosing the right brand for your home is a major concern for anyone looking to purchase new HVAC equipment. This article is built to help homeowners set budgets, but if you are interested in learning more about the best air conditioner brands, check out our blog post that covers that topic. An HVAC installation cost can vary as much as $3,600.00 based on the brand you choose. A 3-ton Lennox HVAC replacement price comes in at around $11,268 to install, while a 3-ton Goodman HVAC system price is going to be around $7,650. You can see that there can be a significant price difference between HVAC brands.
3 Ton 14.3 SEER2 AC Unit & Furnace Replacement Cost
| HVAC System Brand | Straight Electric | Heat Pump | Gas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lennox HVAC Cost | $10,779 | $11,268 | $11,578 |
| American Standard HVAC Cost | $10,616 | $11,102 | $11,307 |
| Carrier HVAC Cost | $10,095 | $10,574 | $10,720 |
| Trane HVAC Cost | $10,095 | $10,574 | $10,720 |
| Ruud HVAC Cost | $9,908 | $10,385 | $10,400 |
| Rheem HVAC Cost | $9,908 | $10,385 | $10,400 |
| Bryant HVAC Cost | $9,713 | $10,190 | $10,232 |
| Amana HVAC Cost | $9,512 | $9,987 | $10,232 |
| Heil HVAC Cost | $8,954 | $9,458 | $9,465 |
| Payne HVAC Cost | $8,397 | $8,929 | $8,698 |
| York HVAC Cost | $7,839 | $8,400 | $7,931 |
| Goodman HVAC Cost | $7,089 | $7,650 | $7,181 |
Prices updated October 2026. Installed prices, before rebates.
All Good, Better, Best Brands
Premier HVAC Brands
Brands like Carrier are premier brands that consistently set industry standards for HVAC. Carrier units can include a range of advanced features, including high-efficiency compressors, variable-speed technology, and smart thermostats that enhance both performance and energy savings. Their units are often equipped with advanced air filtration systems that ensure improved air quality. Carrier HVAC prices tend to range from $10,095.00 to $10,720, depending on the size of your space. However, it’s essential to balance quality with price. While premier brands may have a slightly higher price point, the long-term reliability and efficiency benefits make them a worthwhile investment.
Mid-Tier HVAC Brands
For those seeking a balance between quality and price, mid-tier brands like Rheem offer a compelling alternative. Rheem HVAC systems provide reliable performance with a lower price tag. These systems are known for their durability and energy efficiency. Choosing Rheem allows you to enjoy long-term reliability while keeping your budget in check. While mid-tier brands may not have all the premium features of top-tier options, they strike a good balance for many homeowners looking for quality without breaking the bank. Rheem HVAC costs tend to range from $9,908.00 to $10,400.00.
Builders-Grade HVAC Brands
When pricing is a primary concern, builders-grade brands like Goodman provide a practical solution. Goodman offers an economical choice without compromising on basic functionality. These systems are designed to meet all heating and cooling needs at a budget-friendly price point. Goodman products are reliable and provide a straightforward solution for those seeking affordability. Choosing a builders-grade brand ensures you get a dependable HVAC system without unnecessary frills, making it a sensible option for cost-conscious consumers. Goodman HVAC costs range from $7,089.00 to $7,181.00, depending on the size of your space.
HVAC System Cost Breakout
Your air conditioning unit is starting to give you trouble, so you call a few local companies to quote you on a new HVAC. The prices that you are getting are higher than what you were expecting. Now you have to ask yourself, is this really how much a new HVAC system costs? The breakout below will help to give you a good idea of what goes into the materials and labor. However, if you are just looking for a short answer, the average cost to replace an HVAC system will be around $10,719.78 for a basic 3-ton gas replacement. If you only need the outdoor unit replaced, see our AC replacement cost in San Antonio.
| 3-Ton Gas 14.3 SEER2 Example | Equipment | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remove Indoor Furnace & Outdoor AC Unit | $400.00 | $400.00 | |
| Set New Indoor Furnace & Outdoor AC Unit | $7,411.80 | $400.00 | $7,811.80 |
| Reconnect Plenum, Line Set, & Drain | $218.00 | $400.00 | $618.00 |
| Install New Filter Drier, Safety Switch, Locking Cap, & Thermostat | $871.98 | $400.00 | $1,271.98 |
| Calibrate & Commission System | $218.00 | $400.00 | $618.00 |
| Total | $8,719.78 | $2,000.00 | $10,719.78 |
What needs to be included in new HVAC installation
- Pump Down The System
- Remove Indoor Furnace & Outdoor AC Unit
- Acid Flushing Line Set
- Replace Disconnect & Whip (If Needed)
- Install Max Circuit Protection Fuses (If Needed)
- Install New Indoor Furnace & Outdoor AC Unit
- Reconnect And Seal Plenum
- Reconnect Line Set
- Reconnect Drain Line
- Install New Filter Drier
- Install Safety Switch
- Install Locking Caps
- Install New Thermostat
- Calibrate The System
- Commission The System
- Complete City Permit & City Inspection (If Needed)
- Includes 10-year parts warranty & 2 year labor warranty
Click To Start Shopping
HVAC System Prices By Type
Each option has trade-offs, with gas systems prioritized for colder regions, heat pumps for the south, and electric systems for short-term or rental scenarios. The average gas HVAC system price is going to average around $10,719.78. It offers high-quality heating but is pricier due to safety measures against carbon monoxide, and it is ideal for northern states. Heat pumps cost around $10,574.50, excelling in energy efficiency for the southern US but losing effectiveness in colder climates. Electric HVAC, at $10,094.92, can be budget-friendly but less efficient, suitable for short-term use or rental properties prioritizing cost over long-term energy savings.
| HVAC System Size | Electric 14.3 SEER2 Replacement | Heat Pump 14.3 SEER2 Replacement | Gas 14.3 SEER2 Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Ton HVAC System Cost | $8,920.69 | $10,209.44 | $9,975.28 |
| 2.5 Ton HVAC System Cost | $9,713.26 | $10,460.77 | $10,195.29 |
| 3 Ton HVAC System Cost | $10,094.92 | $10,574.50 | $10,719.78 |
| 3.5 Ton HVAC System Cost | $10,950.60 | $11,526.36 | $11,212.06 |
| 4 Ton HVAC System Cost | $11,899.98 | $12,130.87 | $11,654.04 |
| 5 Ton HVAC System Cost | $12,757.04 | $12,480.49 | $12,646.05 |
Do you have an electric, heat pump, or gas HVAC system?
Another fact to consider when setting budgets is that the system type can significantly impact the new HVAC cost. A heat pump HVAC can cost about the same as a gas system, within a few hundred dollars depending on size. If you are unsure what you have now, you can get the model number on the outdoor unit and indoor furnace/air handler. Do a quick Google search to find out. From there, it should be easier to budget accordingly.
Gas HVAC System
Gas HVAC arguably delivers the highest quality of heating for your home. A new HVAC system cost can vary per system type, but a gas system costs about the same as a heat pump or electric system, usually within a few hundred dollars depending on size. The cost is driven largely by the number of safety precautions that must be taken when replacing a gas HVAC. Since it uses combustion to warm your home, it produces carbon monoxide as a by-product. Many safety parameters are in place to ensure the carbon monoxide gets out of your home safely. Overall, this is one of your best options for the northern states. A heat pump struggles to perform in the cold weather, and an electric furnace is too inefficient for the long winters. A gas system is not the most expensive option, and prices across the three types are close. It is your best option up north. The average HVAC replacement cost for a gas system is around $10,719.78, making it about the same as the other options.
Heat Pump HVAC System
A heat pump is an ideal option for southern states in the US. There are a few reasons a heat pump works so well in the south. One of the most significant reasons is that a heat pump is the most energy-efficient HVAC system available. The outdoor AC unit uses freon to both cool and warm your home, which is very different from the other systems that must use combustion or electricity to warm your home. The average cost to replace HVAC is about the same whether you have a heat pump or an electric system.
However, a gas system costs about the same. The downside to a heat pump is that it doesn’t work well up north since it must extract warmth from the outdoor ambient temperature. At times in this area, it gets too cold to pull heat from the air. Another minor issue is that the life expectancy isn’t quite as long as the other types due to it running year-round in summer and winter. In contrast, gas and electric systems only use the outdoor air conditioning unit in the summer and the furnace in the winter. I would expect to get around 15 years with a heat pump and a few years longer for the others. The HVAC replacement cost is reasonable, and the energy efficiency is excellent, making this one of your best options for the southern US. The average cost to replace a heat pump will be around $10,574.50, which is an excellent solution for energy efficiency.
Electric HVAC System
An electric HVAC used to be the most budget-friendly option, and it is still usually the least expensive to install. It is also the most inefficient way to warm your home. Generally, electric units are not recommended, but there are a few applications where they make sense. Converting from an electric system to a heat pump drives up the price, so a like-for-like replacement will always be the cheapest. If you are going to live in your home for fewer than five years, this might be a good replacement option. Another instance where it makes sense is for rental properties. Most tenants don’t change the filters that often or properly take care of the equipment, leading to the unit failing 5 to 10 years sooner than they usually would. In this scenario, where you are not paying for the electricity and the equipment is being used and abused, your best option is the low-price electric replacement. The average HVAC cost for a 3-ton straight electric system will run $10,094.92, by far the most economical solution.
HVAC System Replacement Cost By SEER
Efficiency plays a big part in the cost of a new HVAC system and is worth considering when setting a budget for a new HVAC replacement. For example, a gas 3-ton 14.3 SEER2 new HVAC installed costs $10,719.78, while an 18.5 SEER2 unit costs $17,973.32. As you can see, an 18.5 SEER2 replacement costs over 1.5 times as much as a 14.3 SEER2, so I recommend looking into the pros and cons of high SEER ratings early on in the buying process.
| 14.3 SEER2 HVAC System | Cost | Annual Electric Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Ton HVAC | $9,975.28 | $247.00 |
| 3 Ton HVAC | $10,719.78 | $370.40 |
| 4 Ton HVAC | $11,654.04 | $493.80 |
| 5 Ton HVAC | $12,646.05 | $617.40 |
| Carrier Infinity Heat Pump | Cost | Annual Electric Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Ton HVAC (17.5 SEER2) | $17,215.25 | $467.00 |
| 3 Ton HVAC (18.5 SEER2) | $17,973.32 | $700.00 |
| 4 Ton HVAC (19 SEER2) | $19,956.29 | $884.00 |
| 5 Ton HVAC (20 SEER2) | $21,569.82 | $1,050.00 |
Prices updated October 2026. Installed prices, before rebates.
How the SEER and number of stages affect your home
Before we go over how these systems will affect your home, let’s first examine the differences between SEER rating and stages.
Higher SEER ratings are achieved by increasing the size of the outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator coil found in the furnace. The increased size allows more air to move over the fins, cooling the air far more efficiently and leading to less energy being used to cool your home.
The compressor found in the outdoor condenser is the HVAC system component that creates different stages. The multi-stage system allows your air conditioner to run and blow the air at different speeds. It does help with energy efficiency but where you will see the most significant impact is the amount of control it gives you over indoor humidity along with temperature consistency throughout your home.
Cost of Central HVAC System By Stages
The number of stages in an HVAC system is going to impact the climate control in your home dramatically. The cost of a central HVAC system will vary quite a bit based on the unit’s number of stages. Single-stage units, functioning at 100% or off, pose challenges such as short cycling, uneven temperatures, and humidity issues, particularly in humid regions, despite their lower cost. On the other hand, two-stage central air conditioners with dual stages (around 65% and 100%) offer improved efficiency, extended run times, and temperature consistency. The added cost for a two-stage replacement can prove worthwhile, especially for two-story homes. Variable speed HVAC units ensure precise temperature control within one degree, optimal humidity management, and uniform temperature distribution, justifying their higher price, especially for spacious homes with high ceilings and valuable possessions.
| HVAC System | Single Stage | Carrier Performance (gas) | Carrier Infinity (gas) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Ton HVAC System Cost | $9,975.28 | $10,964.86 | $14,265.50 |
| 3 Ton HVAC System Cost | $10,719.78 | $11,791.66 | $15,136.84 |
| 4 Ton HVAC System Cost | $11,654.04 | $12,760.98 | $16,059.69 |
| 5 Ton HVAC System Cost | $12,646.05 | $12,925.57 | $17,147.89 |
Prices updated October 2026. Installed prices, before rebates.
Single Stage Delivers Little Control
Single-stage HVAC units have only one setting. It’s either all on or off; there is no in-between, which means that when it’s time to warm or cool your home, your system runs at 100% until the desired temperature is reached. That sounds like a good thing because it means it heats or cools your home faster, right? Not exactly; this creates a few problems by operating at 100%. Running at 100% leads to a short cooling cycle because the system quickly reaches the set thermostat temperature. The quick on/off cycle time can create hot and cool spots throughout your home, where some areas of your home are cool while others are warm. A multi-stage system can help fix this problem, and the other problem that we run into with single-stage units is humidity. If you live in an area with high humidity throughout the year, a single-stage system doesn’t run long enough to balance out the humidity in your home; terrible news if you have art or expensive furniture. Though a single-stage HVAC replacement will always cost the least, it isn’t always the best solution.
2-Stage Delivers Some Control
A two-stage central air conditioner has two operating speeds. The first stage operates at around 65% of its capacity most of the time. The second stage operates at 100%. If there is not a lot of demand for your HVAC, it will use the first stage to cool your home. However, it moves to the second stage to meet the desired temperature if it’s really hot outside, and the first stage is no longer keeping up. A two-stage unit has a much longer run time, better controls the humidity in your home, and helps even out the temperatures throughout your home. The extra cost for a two-stage HVAC replacement is worth considering if you own a two-story home or are looking to protect valuables.
Variable Speed Delivers Total Control
5-speed and variable-speed units operate at multiple different airflow outputs. They are designed to run at the lowest speed setting until that setting can no longer satisfy the indoor temperature. In that case, the unit will move to the next stage, stepping through the stages once it hits the set thermostat temperature. It can control your house’s temperature within one degree. Because it runs so long on the lowest setting, you can set the desired level for the humidity in your home while keeping the temperature uniform from room to room. When asking, “How much does a new HVAC system cost?” you first have to answer, “How much control do I want for my home?” The increase in cost for a variable-speed HVAC replacement is worth considering if you have a large home with high ceilings and many rooms. These systems will protect your artwork and expensive furniture while keeping your electric bill low.
Add Ons For New HVAC
Add-ons are extra features that can bring a multitude of perks to your new system. Opting for a superior filter not only cleanses indoor air from allergens but also extends the lifespan of your system, ensuring long-term cost savings. Surge protectors act as a crucial shield, preventing potential damage during power surges and safeguarding your investment. The consideration of the line set, plenums, and ductwork during replacement guarantees optimal performance, avoiding issues such as reduced efficiency. If your HVAC ducts are aging, replacing them, especially with flex ducts, promotes a cleaner system and efficient airflow, contributing to a healthier home environment. Investing in add-ons for your new HVAC is a decision that ensures your system is more efficient, durable, and long-lasting.
| Add Ons | Cost |
|---|---|
| UV Light | $398.00 |
| LED Reme Halo | $1,190.00 |
| 4" Filter & Base | $475.00 |
| Dehumidifier | $5,800.00 |
| Programmable Thermostat | $873.00 |
| Surge Protector | $250.00 |
| Install New Line Set (Single-Story) | $578.00 |
| Install New Line Set (Two-Story) | $795.00 |
| Duct Board Plenum | $578.00 |
| Metal Plenum | $677.00 |
| Replace Duct Run | $572.00 |
| New Location Duct Run | $683.00 |
Filtration And Air Quality
Choosing a better filter for your new HVAC unit is a smart move with lots of perks. A top-notch filter traps more dust, allergens, and pollutants, making your indoor air much cleaner. This is especially good for people with allergies or breathing issues. It also keeps your system cleaner, helping it last longer and work better. A good filter means less wear and tear on your system, saving you money in the long run. It keeps the airflow steady, so your HVAC unit runs efficiently and uses less energy. Even though a better filter might cost a bit more upfront, it pays off by making your home more comfortable and healthier and saving you money on energy and repairs in the future.
When you’re getting a new HVAC unit, think about the price related to air quality. Spending a bit more on a good unit and air filter upfront can pay off in the long run. Better air quality means a healthier home with less dust and fewer allergies. It also keeps your new system clean, making it last longer and needing fewer repairs. Investing in a system that cleans the air well can even save you money on energy bills.
Line-Set
One of the easiest things to forget about when looking for a new system is the line set – the pair of copper tubes that carry the refrigerant. It’s essential to make sure the line set is the right size and in good shape for your new system to work well. Reusing the old line set can cause problems like reduced efficiency and leaks. If you are looking to install a larger unit, it is usually best to install a new line set that matches. This may be an upfront cost, but it keeps your system running smoothly, prevents issues, and makes sure your upgraded HVAC lasts a long time and works efficiently.
Surge Protector
When getting a new HVAC unit, consider getting surge protectors to keep it safe. A new HVAC can get damaged by sudden power surges from things like lightning or power outages. Surge protectors act like a shield, stopping these electrical surges from harming your new unit’s essential parts. Even though surge protectors might cost a bit more upfront, they’re like insurance for your system. They can save you money by preventing costly repairs or the system from breaking down too soon because of electrical problems. Surge protectors help your system last longer and work reliably, making sure it stays safe from unexpected power changes and runs well for a long time.
Ductwork
As your HVAC system starts getting older, so does your ductwork. After 20 to 40 years of use, the air ducts start getting dirty, or rodents get in your attic, tearing up air ducts. As you are considering a change out, you might want to look into replacing your ducts, too. There are two types of air ducts: flex and steel. Let’s take a look at flex ducting because it is usually easier to access and quote accurately. We are not going to cover replacing steel ductwork due to the varied amount of work required and the fact that most homeowners opt to have them cleaned since it’s far cheaper than replacing them. We charge $572 to replace a flex air duct run. Count the number of vents in your home and multiply by $572; that is a rough estimate of what you would pay to replace your flex ductwork. If you are looking to get a new flex air duct run installed in a new location, that would cost $683.
The plenum is the box that connects the furnace or air handler to the ductwork. When getting a new system the plenum might need to be replaced in order to fit the new equipment. Making sure the plenums are the right size and in good shape is crucial for your system to work well. It might seem like a money-saver to reuse old plenums, but that can lead to problems like reduced airflow and efficiency. Putting in new plenums that match your new HVAC unit can prove better. This ensures good airflow, avoids potential issues, and helps your upgraded HVAC system last longer and work better. It’s a small investment that pays off in improved performance and energy savings down the road.
Don’t get scammed
It can be frustrating if you are a homeowner digging into the cost to replace HVAC for your home. You find this site where we are transparent with our internal pricing, but the contractor you are working with quoted you a much higher price. You might be asking yourself, what is going on here? I just want a fair price. And if this wasn’t already frustrating enough, you need to make decisions quickly if your system is down. You can do a few things to help find the right company.
How to get the best price for the brand you want
Once you have a particular brand in mind you want, the next question is, “Where do I get it?” Many contractors offer a broad range of brands, but that doesn’t mean they will give you the best price. The key to getting the best deal is to align the brand with the contractor. For example, we primarily buy and sell Carrier to our customers. We get the best pricing since we do so much volume with Carrier. Trane units will always cost more because we don’t do as much business with Trane. We pass these savings on to our customers. So what does this mean for you? Once you have decided on the right brand for your home, the next step is to find a few contractors who use this brand as their go-to, helping to ensure you get the best HVAC unit cost for that brand, along with experts who work on these systems every day.
You can take another angle to help get the best HVAC system replacement cost. It’s a little tricky to work through because you’ll have to do more leg work to find the right contractor. Some companies spend huge amounts of money on marketing and salespeople. It is normal for an air conditioning and heating company to spend 15-20% of the replacement cost on marketing by the time the sale is closed. Also, they need a salesperson to close the sale, which costs another 10%. That’s right; many companies charge 30% more for something that has no direct benefit to you. This adds around $1,800 more to the new HVAC installation cost than what is posted in this article. If you are working with a company whose prices are 30% higher than the prices you see here, I recommend calling a few more companies until you find pricing more in line with fair industry rates.
FAQ
How much does it cost to replace an HVAC system in Texas?
A complete HVAC system replacement from Atlas AC Repair costs $6,820 to $12,757 installed, before rebates, at our October 2026 prices. A basic 3-ton gas system averages $10,719.78, and a 5-ton Carrier Comfort system runs up to $12,757. Brand, tonnage, system type and efficiency move the price most. We post these prices for homes in San Antonio, Austin, Arlington/DFW and Houston.
How much is a 3-ton AC and furnace replacement?
A 3-ton AC and gas furnace replacement costs $10,719.78 installed for a Carrier Comfort 14.3 SEER2 single-stage system. By brand, the 3-ton gas price runs from $7,181 for Goodman to $11,578 for Lennox. Moving up to a Carrier Performance two-stage gas system costs $11,791.66, and a Carrier Infinity variable-speed gas system costs $15,136.84.
Does a heat pump cost more than an AC and gas furnace?
A heat pump and an AC with gas furnace cost about the same, about $145 apart at 3 tons: $10,574.50 for a heat pump versus $10,719.78 for gas, installed. A straight electric system is usually the least expensive at $10,094.92 for 3 tons. Heat pumps suit Texas well because they are the most energy-efficient system type, though we expect about 15 years from a heat pump and a few years longer from gas or electric systems.
How much more does a high-efficiency (higher SEER2) HVAC system cost?
A 3-ton 18.5 SEER2 Carrier Infinity heat pump costs $17,973.32 installed, over 1.5 times the $10,719.78 price of a 3-ton 14.3 SEER2 gas system. The page estimates annual electric savings of $700 for the 18.5 SEER2 system versus $370.40 for the 14.3 SEER2 system at 3 tons. At 4 tons the prices are $19,956.29 versus $11,654.04.
What is included in an Atlas HVAC install price, and what costs extra?
Every Atlas installed price includes removing the old furnace and outdoor unit, setting the new equipment, acid-flushing and reconnecting the line set, reconnecting and sealing the plenum and drain, a new filter drier, safety switch, locking caps and thermostat, calibration and commissioning, and a city permit and inspection where needed. It also includes a 10-year parts warranty and a 2-year labor warranty. Common extras are a new line set ($578 single-story, $795 two-story), metal plenum ($677), surge protector ($250), UV light ($398), 4-inch filter and base ($475), dehumidifier ($5,800), and $572 per replaced flex duct run.
What financing does Atlas offer for a new HVAC system?
Atlas offers financing through three lenders: Soarion for credit over 700, GoodLeap for fair credit, and CreditHuman for lower credit. Soarion offers 0% financing, GoodLeap offers terms up to 15 years with a soft credit check until funding, and Carrier is currently promoting 0% interest for 60 months on Carrier equipment. See details.
What HVAC rebates are available in Texas?
In San Antonio, CPS Energy pays $90 to $310 per cooling ton depending on SEER2 and whether the old system still worked, and Atlas files the CPS rebate for you; one 2025 Summerfield customer received $900. Austin Energy offers $600 to $800 for qualifying AC systems and $650 to $950 for heat pumps, and CenterPoint Energy (Houston) incentives start at $200 for systems of 15.2 SEER2 or higher; Atlas is a participating contractor for both programs. Oncor (DFW/Arlington) has used up its 2026 funding until January 2027. All Atlas prices are before rebates.
What time of year is cheapest to replace HVAC in Texas?
Spring and fall are usually the cheapest times to replace HVAC because demand is lowest and contractors have open schedules. In Texas, replacing before the summer heat avoids emergency pricing and the pressure of choosing a system while your AC is down. Planning ahead also gives you time to compare quotes against published prices like the $6,820 to $12,757 range on this page.
How often does an HVAC system need to be replaced?
Most HVAC systems need replacing every 15 to 20 years. A heat pump typically lasts around 15 years because its outdoor unit runs year-round, while gas and electric systems last a few years longer. Regular maintenance extends system life, and frequent breakdowns or falling efficiency are signs replacement is near.
Is it cheaper to replace the furnace and AC together?
A complete matched 3-ton gas system costs $10,719.78 installed, while a new AC unit alone costs $3,808 to $6,054 and a new furnace alone costs $4,207 to $4,595. Replacing both together means one installation and a matched system.
Should you replace a 20-year-old HVAC system?
Usually yes: at 20 years an HVAC system has reached the end of its typical 15-to-20-year lifespan. Older systems often use phased-out R-22 refrigerant, which makes repairs harder and more expensive, and they use more electricity than a new system. A new 3-ton gas system costs $10,719.78 installed, and the page estimates about $370 a year in electric savings at that size.
Which type of HVAC system lasts the longest?
Gas furnace and electric systems usually last the longest, a few years longer than a heat pump's roughly 15 years. Their indoor units have simpler designs with fewer wearing parts, and their outdoor AC unit runs only in summer, while a heat pump's outdoor unit both heats and cools all year. With proper maintenance, a gas system is a durable, long-lasting choice.
How to get a fair price on an HVAC install?
12 Things Every Homeowner Should Know Before Buying New HVAC
The HVAC industry still operates as the wild west, and many homeowners are left to fend for themselves. Atlas AC created the Buyers Guide to prevent untrustworthy companies from exploiting homeowners.
Use this guide to help you select the best company for your next replacement.
If you were searching for “HVAC replacement cost,” I hope this article was helpful; we also have additional articles that cover topics like evaporator coil replacement, new AC unit, or new furnace; if you find any of these topics interesting, please take a look. Call us if you need AC services in Texas, and we can help.
