It's hard to give an exact figure for the cost of a new HVAC system, as the term covers a wide range of units, including air conditioners, boilers, minisplit air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps. The minimum seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) of air conditioners can range from 13 to 26, depending on the make and model. You may be able to negotiate the cost of installing your air conditioner with your contractor. Prices for air conditioning units tend to be lower between March and May, while heating and hot air systems are cheaper between August and November.
When you receive a quote from an HVAC professional, make sure to ask if the following costs are included. If new pipes, ducts, or wiring need to be installed, you may come across hazardous materials. Most HVAC professionals will include these in their initial cost estimate, but it's worth double-checking. Before you accept any offer, always review your final HVAC installation quotes for any potential pricing errors.
You don't have to make all these decisions yourself: HVAC professionals will tailor the heating and cooling system and related ductwork to your needs. Portable air conditioners and window air conditioning units are cheaper to buy, install, and operate. If your air conditioning system is less than 10 years old, well-maintained, and working properly, you may be able to repair it if any issues arise. When you first install an air conditioning unit, you'll also need to add insulation.
