HVAC Replacement Cost Calculator: AC, Heat Pump & Furnace Pricing

HVAC Replacement Costs in San Diego

HVAC system replacement in San Diego ranges from $5,000 to $18,000. Central AC replacement: $4,000-$8,000. Heat pump: $5,000-$12,000. Furnace: $3,000-$7,000. Combined system (AC + furnace): $7,000-$15,000. Mini-split ductless: $3,000-$8,000 per zone. San Diego's mild winters mean many homes only need AC, making heat pumps an excellent choice — they provide both heating and cooling efficiently.

Choosing the Right HVAC System

Central AC: Best for homes with existing ductwork. 14-20 SEER2 ratings. $4,000-$8,000 installed. Heat pump: Heats and cools. Ideal for San Diego's climate. Qualifies for federal tax credits ($2,000). $5,000-$12,000 installed. Mini-split: No ductwork needed. Perfect for additions, garages, ADUs. $3,000-$8,000 per zone. Furnace: Gas furnace for homes that need dedicated heating. $3,000-$7,000 installed.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Ductwork: If ducts are damaged or undersized, replacement costs $2,000-$6,000. Electrical panel upgrade: Heat pumps and large AC units may need a 200-amp panel ($2,000-$4,000). Refrigerant line set: $500-$1,500 if running new lines. Thermostat: $200-$500 for smart thermostat. Permits: $200-$500 in San Diego. Our calculator itemizes all these costs so you know the true total.

Energy Savings and Rebates

Upgrading from a 10 SEER to 16 SEER system saves 30-40% on cooling costs — roughly $400-$800/year in San Diego. Federal tax credit: $2,000 for heat pumps (through 2032). SDG&E rebates: up to $1,000 for qualifying high-efficiency equipment. California Title 24 requires minimum 15 SEER2 for new installations. Our calculator factors in available rebates to show your net cost.