Homeowners typically pay a broad range for replacing a 5 ton air conditioning unit paired with a new furnace. Key cost drivers include unit efficiency (SEER), furnace AFUE, ductwork, labor, and local permit requirements. The price can vary by climate, home size, and installation complexity, with a meaningful impact from both equipment and labor.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Ton AC Condensing Unit | $1,600 | $2,800 | $4,000 | Efficiency and brand vary |
| Furnace (80%–95% AFUE, gas) | $1,900 | $3,600 | $5,000 | Modulating vs. single-stage affects price |
| Installation Labor | $1,500 | $2,800 | $4,000 | Includes removal, hookups, testing |
| Duct Modifications / Ductwork | $500 | $1,800 | $3,500 | Depends on leakage and size |
| Permits & Inspections | $50 | $350 | $1,000 | State and locality dependent |
| Total Project Range | $5,550 | $11,350 | $18,500 | Assumes standard 5 ton equipment and mid-range labor |
Overview Of Costs
Cost estimates cover equipment, labor, and common ancillary expenses for replacing a 5 ton AC unit and furnace. The total typically ranges from $5,500 to $18,500, with most projects landing near $11,000–$13,500 depending on efficiency and ductwork needs. Per-unit figures help buyers compare options: AC unit $1,600–$4,000; furnace $1,900–$5,000; installed labor $1,500–$4,000; duct work $500–$3,500. Assumptions: standard rectangular duct system, single-family residence, moderate attic access, and local permit requirements.
Cost Breakdown
Items in a typical replacement include both equipment and installation components. The following table summarizes major cost buckets and how they contribute to the total. Note that regional differences and project specifics can shift these numbers.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $3,500 | $6,000 | $9,000 | AC condenser, furnace, refrigerant lines, filters |
| Labor | $1,500 | $2,800 | $4,000 | Removal of old equipment, install, wire, refrigerant checks |
| Equipment | $3,500 | $6,000 | $9,000 | 5 ton AC and gas furnace pairing |
| Permits | $50 | $350 | $1,000 | Local code compliance |
| Delivery / Disposal | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Disposal of old equipment |
| Contingency | $200 | $500 | $2,000 | Unforeseen duct or wiring needs |
What Drives Price
Key price determinants include system efficiency, installation complexity, and home specifics. SEER ratings for the new AC unit influence upfront cost substantially: 14–16 SEER is common, 18–21 SEER adds premium but lowers long-term energy use. Furnace AFUE matters: 80%–85% is entry-level, 90%+ models command higher prices but reduce operating costs. Duct layout, attic access, and refrigerant line length also push labor and materials higher.
Factors That Affect Price
Regional variations and seasonal timing can shift totals. Prices tend to be higher in dense urban areas and during peak cooling season (summer) due to higher labor demand. Rural markets may feature lower labor costs but potential travel fees and longer wait times. Regional climate differences affect equipment sizing and refrigerant needs, altering both equipment and installation costs.
Ways To Save
Practical budget tips help control upfront and long-term costs. Consider high-efficiency equipment only if the expected energy savings justify the premium, typically 5–10 years payback in moderate climates. Request a combined equipment-and-installation quote to avoid add-ons after the sale. Ask about optional comfort features (zoned systems, smart thermostats) and whether a single contractor can handle both AC and furnace work to reduce labor coordination fees.
Regional Price Differences
Pricing can vary by region and market conditions. For three representative U.S. areas, typical total project ranges differ by roughly ±15% to ±25% around the national averages. Urban centers with high labor costs may see higher installation fees, while suburban and rural markets often have more competitive rates and fewer supply constraints. Assumptions: single-family home, standard ductwork, no unusual structural changes.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor time for a full replacement often spans 1–3 days depending on accessibility. Typical crew sizes are 2–4 technicians, with hourly rates from $85 to $150 depending on region and contractor qualifications. A complex duct retrofit or tall attic access adds hours and cost, while preexisting compatible ductwork can trim labor. Use a detailed labor estimate to compare bids, and verify equipment compatibility with existing refrigerant lines.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate how choices drive total cost. Each card shows specs, labor hours, per-unit prices, and a rounded total. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
- Basic Scenario — 5 ton AC (14 SEER) + 80% AFUE furnace, standard ductwork, 1 story home. Equipment: $3,200; Labor: $2,000; Permits: $200; Duct work: $700. Total: $6,100. $/ton: $1,220; $/SEER: $228.
- Mid-Range Scenario — 5 ton AC (16 SEER) + 90% AFUE furnace, moderate duct modifications, longer line sets. Equipment: $4,000; Labor: $2,800; Permits: $350; Duct work: $1,200. Total: $8,350. $/ton: $1,670; $/AFUE point: $56.
- Premium Scenario — 5 ton high-efficiency AC (18–21 SEER) + 95% AFUE furnace, full duct redesign, smart thermostat. Equipment: $5,500; Labor: $3,600; Permits: $550; Duct work: $2,800. Total: $12,450. $/ton: $2,490; $/SEER: $310.