How Much Does a New HVAC Unit Cost in 2022?
There is no definitive answer on the cost of a new HVAC unit. A general rule is that you’ll pay between $5000 – $10,000 USD to replace your system, or between $7,000 and $15,000 to install an entirely new system, which includes ductwork.
As one might expect, prices vary depending on individual requirements and preferences. So let’s take a look at the factors behind the cost of a new HVAC unit in 2022, and the specific items that add up to make the total.
How much does a new HVAC Unit cost?
If you’re looking to replace your existing HVAC system, you’ll be paying marginally less than a totally new installation with ductwork. There are numerous add-ons that can further raise costs, though the relevance of those components will depend on the situation. For instance, a whole-house humidifier will usually cost between $600 and $1,200, whilst UV light filters may cost around $400 including installation.
Let’s break HVAC unit costs down by specific types:
Central Air Conditioner
This unit works to cool your entire home through the circulation of air that’s traveled over refrigerated coils. The average costs to install a central air conditioner are between $3,000 and $8,000. This amount is influenced by the brand you choose, the square footage of the building, and various other factors.
Heat Pump
A critical component in your HVAC system, the heat pump takes heat from the cold outside air and transfers it inside the building. If you’re replacing a heat pump, you’ll pay somewhere between $4,000 and $8,000. Ultra-efficient technologies like geothermal heat pumps, which use the thermal energy of the Earth, cost substantially more ($15,000 and $35,000).
Furnace
As you’d expect from the name, a furnace heats the building by using some kind of fuel. Gas furnaces cost an average of $2,000 to $4,000 to install, whilst oil furnaces are more expensive at between $4,000 and $7,000. Such configurations require more complicated installation than electric furnaces but offer cheaper long-term running costs.
How much does HVAC Installation cost?
The installation costs of a new HVAC system depend on the extent of work that needs to be done, which applies to whether you’re replacing the entire system or just certain components. For example, replacing the main components of your HVAC system without touching the existing ductwork can cost between $5,000 and $10,000. If you decide to install entirely new ductwork, costs can rise by a few thousand dollars ($7,000 to $15,000).
It’s rare for HVAC installation specialists to provide a quote based on square footage, though the average cost per square foot is somewhere from $4 to $8. This equates to an installation cost of around $4,000 to $8,000 for a 1,000 square foot space, or $8,000 to $16,000 for a 2,000 square foot space. This is not a golden rule, however, so the exact costs can be higher or lower.
Investing in your Comfort
Even though air conditioning relies on basic thermal principles, HVAC systems are still very complicated. There are plenty of internal components unknown to the average Joe, all of which must be installed correctly for optimal performance.
For those concerned with the price of a new HVAC system in 2022, remember that it is a long-term investment. Selecting higher-quality equipment will provide you with greater levels of efficiency and thus save you money in the future. Resist the temptation to cut costs as this may leave you with an unsuitable or incapable HVAC system that has to work extremely hard, thus compromising the efficiency and lifespan of your air conditioning.
If you aren’t sure which type of HVAC system is best for your home or business, you may find it useful to ask HVAC professionals. An experienced technician can best determine your perfect set-up, so get in touch if you’re curious, or need any HVAC advice otherwise.