Central air conditioner replacement costs, what drives them, and how to plan
Central air conditioner replacement typically costs about $3,900 to $7,900 for the system, or roughly $5,650 to $9,800 all-in once labor and permits are included, according to Angi’s 2026 cost data. In Franklin County, Ohio, your price depends on the AC’s size and efficiency, whether the indoor coil or furnace also needs replacing, refrigerant line work, electrical updates, and permits. Franklin County HVAC can provide an on-site evaluation: call (614) 418-6074 or schedule a consultation.
Key takeaways
- National 2026 data puts most central AC replacements between about $3,900 and $9,800, depending on what is included.
- Matching the indoor coil and furnace to the new outdoor unit affects both cost and performance.
- Refrigerant changes may affect future service costs, so ask which refrigerant a new system uses.
- Columbus requires a permit to replace an AC unit.
What is the typical cost range for AC replacement?
These are national figures from Angi, not quotes for a specific Franklin County home:
| Item | Typical range |
| Central AC system replacement | About $3,900 to $7,900 |
| All-in estimate with labor and permit | About $5,650 to $9,800 |
| Labor portion | About $1,500 |
| Permit | About $250 to $400 |
| Full HVAC system replacement (heating and cooling) | About $5,000 to $22,000, average about $7,500 |
Local permit fees and labor rates in Franklin County may differ, so use these as a planning range.
What changes the cost of AC replacement in Franklin County?
System size
A load calculation such as Manual J sets the right capacity. An oversized AC in humid central Ohio summers cools quickly but leaves humidity behind, while an undersized unit runs nonstop.
Efficiency rating (SEER2)
Higher SEER2 systems cost more upfront and use less electricity. Variable-speed and two-stage models also improve humidity control.
Indoor coil and furnace matching
A central AC works with the indoor evaporator coil and the furnace or air handler blower. Replacing only the outdoor unit on an older system can create a mismatch. If your furnace is aging too, replacing both may cost more now but avoid a second installation later.
Refrigerant and line set
Newer systems increasingly use refrigerants such as R-454B and R-32. Existing copper line sets may need replacement or flushing depending on condition and compatibility. In May 2026, EPA removed the January 1, 2026, installation deadline for certain R-410A systems, but only for equipment manufactured or imported before 2025.
Electrical, pad, and access
A new disconnect, breaker, pad, or longer line runs add cost. Attic air handlers and tight spaces take more labor.
Permits
The City of Columbus lists replacing an AC unit as work that requires a permit but not plan review. Other Franklin County jurisdictions set their own requirements.
Are there ways to lower the cost of AC replacement?
- Replace before it fails. Planned replacement in spring or fall avoids peak-season pressure.
- Get a load calculation. The right size avoids paying for capacity you do not need.
- Compare equal quotes. Check that each covers the same equipment, coil, line set, permits, and warranty.
- Look for rebates. The federal 25C tax credit ended for equipment placed in service after December 31, 2025. Ask your electric utility about current programs, or use the ENERGY STAR rebate finder.
- Consider a heat pump if you are also replacing the furnace, since one system provides both heating and cooling.
Should you repair your AC instead?
Repair usually makes sense for a newer AC with a single failed part, such as a capacitor, contactor, or fan motor. Replacement deserves a closer look when the AC is older, needs a compressor, has a major coil leak, or has needed several repairs. See AC repair and air conditioner installation for more detail.
How do you get an accurate AC replacement quote?
- Call (614) 418-6074 or schedule online.
- Share the basics: home size, the current AC’s age, the furnace’s age, and comfort or humidity problems.
- On-site evaluation: inspection of the outdoor unit, coil, furnace or air handler, line set, electrical, and ducts, plus a load calculation.
- Written estimate with model numbers, SEER2 rating, refrigerant type, scope, permits, and warranty.
FAQs
How much does AC replacement cost in Franklin County, Ohio? Angi’s 2026 data puts central AC system replacement at about $3,900 to $7,900, or roughly $5,650 to $9,800 with labor and permits. Local quotes depend on size, efficiency, coil matching, line set, electrical, and permits.
How much does HVAC replacement cost in Grove City, Ohio? A full heating and cooling replacement nationally ranges from about $5,000 to $22,000, according to Angi. A Grove City quote depends on system type, size, efficiency, ductwork, and permits.
Should I replace my furnace when I replace my AC? If the furnace is also aging, replacing both together keeps the system matched and avoids a second installation later.
Should I repair or replace my air conditioner in Ohio? Repair usually makes sense for a newer AC with a single failed part. Replacement is worth discussing when the unit is older, needs a compressor, or has had repeated repairs.
How long does AC replacement take? A straightforward residential AC replacement may take about a day.
Related Topics
- About Franklin County HVAC
- Contact Franklin County HVAC
- HVAC FAQs for Franklin County homes and businesses
- HVAC glossary of heating and cooling terms
- Heating and cooling services in Franklin County
Related Resources
Sources
- Angi, “How Much Does HVAC Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]”: https://angi.com/articles/insider-s-price-guide-new-heating-and-cooling-system.htm
- City of Columbus Building and Zoning Services, “Typical Residential Projects,” 2026: https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/2/bzs/building/typical-residential-projects-2026.pdf
- ACHR News, “EPA Removes R-410A Installation Deadline,” May 2026: https://www.achrnews.com/articles/166226-epa-removes-r-410a-installation-deadline
- Honkamp, “Impact of the One Beautiful Bill Act on Residential Energy Credits,” 2025: https://www.honkamp.com/insights/article/impact-of-the-one-beautiful-bill-act-on-residential-energy-credits/
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