How Much Does HVAC Repair & Installation Cost in 2026?
Complete HVAC cost guide: AC repair, furnace replacement, duct cleaning, and new system installation. Average costs, what affects pricing, and how to get fair quotes.
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HVAC systems keep your home comfortable year-round, but when they break down, repair costs can be unpredictable. Here's what HVAC services actually cost in 2026.
Average HVAC Costs
| Service | Average Cost | Range |
|---|---|---|
| AC repair | $300 - $600 | $150 - $1,200 |
| Furnace repair | $250 - $500 | $100 - $1,000 |
| AC tune-up | $100 - $200 | $75 - $250 |
| Duct cleaning | $300 - $500 | $200 - $800 |
| Thermostat install | $150 - $350 | $100 - $500 |
| New AC unit (installed) | $3,500 - $7,500 | $2,500 - $12,000 |
| New furnace (installed) | $2,500 - $6,000 | $1,500 - $10,000 |
| Complete HVAC system | $6,000 - $12,000 | $4,000 - $20,000 |
HVAC Hourly Rates
HVAC technicians charge $80-$160 per hour depending on location, certification level, and the type of work. Emergency and after-hours service typically runs 1.5-2x the standard rate.
Most HVAC companies charge a service call fee of $75-$150 for the diagnostic visit. This usually applies toward the repair if you hire them.
Common AC Repairs
| Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Refrigerant recharge | $200 - $500 |
| Capacitor replacement | $150 - $300 |
| Compressor replacement | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Fan motor replacement | $200 - $500 |
| Thermostat replacement | $150 - $350 |
| Evaporator coil | $600 - $1,500 |
| Condenser coil | $400 - $1,200 |
When to Repair vs Replace
Repair if: The system is under 10 years old and the repair costs less than 50% of a new system.
Replace if: The system is over 15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or the repair exceeds $2,000. Modern systems are 20-40% more energy efficient — the energy savings alone can pay for the upgrade within 5-7 years.
Getting HVAC Quotes
Get 3 quotes for any repair over $500 or any installation. HVAC contractors using modern software like thecontractor.app can provide detailed, itemized quotes quickly — so you can compare apples to apples across bids.
Watch for: Flat-rate pricing (common in HVAC). Some companies charge a flat diagnostic fee then quote repairs from a price book. This is fine as long as prices are competitive — compare against hourly rate estimates.
Bottom Line
Most HVAC repairs cost $200-$600. New system installation runs $6,000-$12,000. Maintain your system annually ($100-$200 per tune-up) to prevent expensive breakdowns and extend equipment life by 5-10 years.