HVAC Cost Estimation
Perfect Star’s furnace / heating repair technicians are certified and undergo weekly state-of-the art specialized training to diagnose and repair any issues affecting your home’s central heating system.
HVAC Replacement Cost in California
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Split System (Gas & AC) | $12,000 – $22,000+ |
| Heat Pump System | $14,000 – $25,000+ |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $10,000 – $20,000+ |
HVAC Unit Costs – What is usually included:
- High-efficiency furnace or heat pump
- Air conditioner or combined unit
- Thermostat (often smart)
- Ductwork installation or modification (if needed)
- Permits, labor, and disposal of old system
Typical Cost Breakdown Example – for a Mid-Range System:
| Component | Low Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | $6,000 | $9,000 |
| Labor (Installation) | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Ductwork | $2,000 | $6,000 |
| Permits & Inspections | $500 | $1,000+ |
| Disposal of Old System | $300 | $700 |
| Smart Thermostat | $200 | $600 |
| Total Estimate | $14,000 | $22,000 |
Costs & Factors for HVAC system costs:
Cost Factors Explained
1. Home Size & Layout:
- Larger homes need more powerful systems → higher BTUs/tonnage.
- Two-story or irregular layouts may need zoning or multi-stage systems.
2. System Type:
- Heat pumps cost more upfront but save more in mild climates.
- Gas furnace + A/C combos may be cheaper but less efficient year-round.
3. Efficiency Ratings:
- Higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) = higher cost but better long-term savings.
- Look for SEER 16–20+ and AFUE 95%+ for California rebate eligibility.
4. Brand & Features:
- Premium brands cost more but often include better warranties and quieter operation.
- Features like variable-speed blowers, zoned controls, and smart connectivity raise costs.
5. Ductwork:
- If existing ducts are old, leaky, or poorly sized, replacing or repairing them is essential—and costly.
- Ductless options eliminate this, but individual indoor units add their own costs.
6. Installation Complexity:
- Crawl spaces, tight attics, or multi-day installs with electrical upgrades increase labor hours.
- Retrofitting older homes may require structural or electrical work.
7. Rebates & Incentives:
- Federal: Up to $2,000 under the Inflation Reduction Act for heat pumps.
- California: Utility rebates vary ($500–$3,000+).
- These can offset costs significantly if your system qualifies.
Do You Need Your Ductwork Replaced?
If you are replacing your current air conditioning system, it’s pretty safe to assume that you already have ductwork. Ductwork is what delivers the conditioned air from your HVAC system throughout your home through vents. However, with time ductwork can lose its efficiency or may need to be altered to work with your new AC system. New or updated ductwork installation can tack on an additional cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the level of difficulty to install or alter.
Our Perfect Replacement & Installation Guarantee
Perfect Comfort Guarantee
We guarantee that when properly designed systems are installed, maintained, and operated in accordance with the manufacture’s operating and maintenance manuals, the system will perform as we have stated and agreed upon. If your desired comfort is not achieved, we will make any modifications or repairs necessary to reach the desired temperature at no charge to you for a period of one-year.
“No Duds” Guarantee
If the compressor in your air conditioner fails during the first five years of ownership, or the heat exchanger in your furnace cracks during the first ten years of ownership, we will remove the entire unit, rather than the component and install a complete new one. If you’ve ever purchased a ‘dud’ before, you’ll truly appreciate our commitment to your long-term satisfaction.
Perfect Price Guarantee
Anyone can make something cheaper by cutting corners and pricing it for less. So, it’s important to know what is and is not included in any heating and cooling system you choose for your home. Our price guarantee is our promise to you that you cannot find a comparable installation for
less … or we’ll pay you $75.00 over the difference. All we ask is that it is a current published ‘apples-to-apples’ comparison.
Perfect Workmanship Guarantee
Our installation technicians are the best in skill, attitude and workmanship. They’ll care for your home and complete the job with speed and precision. They wear floor savers, clean up when they are finished and take personal responsibility for your satisfaction. They are polite and courteous and will not smoke or swear in your home. If, when they have finished in your home, they have not performed in accordance with these high standards, we’ll refund whatever amount of the purchase price you feel to be fair.
24-Hour Fix It Guarantee
We are a full-service company and have a staff of qualified service technicians that are there to serve you in the event your system is having a problem. Our guarantee to you, is that when we arrive, we will have your system up and running within 24-hours of our arrival or we will give you $250.00 to compensate you for your inconvenience.
HVAC Reviews
