Central air conditioning
Hot house? Start here. Pick the page that fits your question.
- Central air: cost guidePrices by type and by state, with the math shown.See prices →
- Central air: calculatorAnswer a few easy questions. Get your range.Try it →
- Fix it or replace it?Warning signs, life spans and the break-even math.Decide →
The short version
A new AC, put in, averages $5,978[1] in the U.S. Most jobs cost $3,887 to $8,073[1][1]. New ducts would add more.
Central air tends to last 7 to 15 years[2][2]. Since 2023, new units must meet a SEER2 score that depends on your region[3].
Three steps to a fair AC price
- SizeFind the tons on the outdoor tag.
- PriceUse our calculator for a range.
- CompareGet three written quotes.
Which page do you need?
- What does it cost? The cost guide covers each size, labor, ducts and HVAC pay in every state.
- What will mine cost? The calculator gives your range and your SEER2 rule.
- Fix or new? The fix or replace guide lists the warning signs and how long parts last.
Every number on these pages links to its source. We show our math, so you can check it.
The parts of a central AC
A central AC is a team of parts. Knowing them helps you read a quote.
- The box outside. It has a big fan on top. This part pushes heat out of your home.
- The coil inside. It sits near your furnace or air handler. Warm air passes over it and cools down.
- The ducts. These metal or soft tubes carry cool air to each room.
- The thermostat. This is the dial or screen on your wall. It tells the system when to run.
A quote may replace one part or all of them. Ask which parts are in the price.
When to start looking
A central AC tends to last 7 to 15 years[2][2]. If yours is in that window, start getting prices in the cool months. Pros are less busy then, and you are not in a rush.
Other clues: rooms that never get cool, a bill that keeps going up, or water near the inside unit.
New rules for new units
Since 2023, new split central AC units must meet a higher efficiency score called SEER2. In the South, small units must be at least SEER2 14[3]. In the North, the floor is 13[3].
Florida is in the Southeast region. Before you hire, look up the HVAC pro's license on the state DBPR site[4].
Keep the cost of cooling down
A new AC is a big buy. Taking care of the one you have can push that day back.
- Book a tune-up each spring. HomeAdvisor lists it at about $100.
- Swap the air filter when it looks gray.
- Close blinds on the sunny side of the house in the afternoon.
- Ask about leaky ducts. Fixing them costs $200 to $1,000, far less than a new system.
Questions people ask
What does a tune-up cost?
HomeAdvisor lists a basic AC tune-up at about $100[1]. A full HVAC check runs $150[1] to $200[1].
What is a ton of cooling?
It is a size, not a weight. One ton moves about 12,000[1] BTUs of heat an hour.
How long does an AC install take?
With ducts already in place, HomeAdvisor says about 4 to 8[1] hours.
Do the ducts need to be replaced too?
Not always. Home inspectors give ducts a long life of about 60 to 100 years[2]. Fixing leaky ducts costs $200[1] to $1,000[1].
Can I add central AC to a home with no ducts?
Yes, but it costs more. New ductwork averages about $2,000[1]. A ductless split is another choice.
Sources
- HomeAdvisor (Angi). How Much Does an AC Unit Cost?. Sample/coverage: HomeAdvisor says it surveyed over 10,000 customers about their project costs (site-wide statement on the page).
- InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors). InterNACHI's Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Homes. Planning estimates under normal conditions, not warranties. InterNACHI notes hot climates sharply shorten asphalt shingle life.
- U.S. Department of Energy. 2023 Energy Conservation Standards for Residential Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps: FAQ.
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Construction Industry Licensing Board: license types.