HVAC Pricing
Would you like to know how much it costs to install A/C and heating in your home? FairPrice Heating and Cooling breaks down the costs to help you out.
Why HVAC Pricing Transparency Matters
Choosing an HVAC contractor shouldn’t feel like solving a mystery. Unfortunately, many homeowners experience confusion when it comes to understanding the cost of heating and cooling services. At FairPrice Heating & Cooling, we believe in doing business differently: with upfront pricing, honest guidance, and zero pressure.
Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner, replacing an outdated furnace, or simply need a quick repair, this guide will walk you through real-world costs so you can make informed decisions.
We’ll break down the pricing for:
Full HVAC installations
System replacements
Common repairs
Seasonal maintenance programs
And we’ll explain the factors that influence cost, how to save money long-term, and why choosing the right contractor matters just as much as choosing the right equipment.
Factors That Influence HVAC Pricing
Several variables impact how much you’ll pay for HVAC installation or service. Here are the key ones:
1. Type of System
Central Air Conditioners are the most common in the Bay Area. Cost depends on tonnage, SEER rating, and brand.
Furnaces vary by type (gas, electric, oil), capacity (BTU), and energy efficiency (AFUE rating).
Heat Pumps provide both heating and cooling, and are ideal for moderate climates.
Mini-Splits (ductless systems) offer zoning flexibility but may cost more per room.
2. Home Size and Layout
Larger homes require more powerful systems. A 2,500 sq ft home needs a different system than a 1,200 sq ft bungalow.
3. Ductwork
New duct installation or retrofitting existing ducts significantly impacts total project cost.
4. Efficiency Ratings
Higher efficiency systems have higher upfront costs but deliver long-term energy savings.
5. Labor and Permits
Labor costs vary by complexity and region. Local codes may require permits and inspections.
6. Indoor Air Quality Add-Ons
Filters, UV lights, humidifiers, and ERV/HRV systems can improve comfort but raise installation costs.
Home HVAC Installation Costs
Installing a new HVAC system is one of the biggest investments a homeowner can make. Here’s what you can expect for various systems in the Bay Area.
| HVAC Equipment Type | Installation Cost Starting At |
|---|---|
Central AC (3 Ton) |
$4,500 |
Gas Furnace |
$3,800 |
Electric Furnace |
$2,500 |
Heat Pump (3 Ton) |
$5000 |
Mini-Split Single Zone |
$3,000 |
Mini-Split Multi-Zone |
$6,000 |
Note: Prices include equipment and professional installation.
What’s Included in Installation
Load calculation
System sizing
Electrical work
Thermostat installation
Duct modifications (if needed)
Permit processing
Final performance test
Optional Add-Ons
Smart thermostats ($200–$600)
Whole-house humidifiers ($400–$1,200)
Air purifiers/UV lights ($300–$1,000)
Home HVAC System Replacement Costs
Replacing an outdated system with a new one may cost less than a full installation if existing ductwork is in good shape.
Average Replacement Costs
| HVAC Component | Replacement Cost Starts At: |
|---|---|
AC Unit Only |
$3,000 |
Furnace Only |
$2,500 |
AC + Furnace Combo |
$7,000 |
Heat Pump System |
$5,500 |
Signs it's Time to Replace
Frequent breakdowns
High utility bills
Inconsistent comfort
Age 15+ years
Uses outdated refrigerant (R-22)
FairPrice Advantage
Our team helps you evaluate whether repair or replacement is best—and we’ll never upsell you if a repair will do.
HVAC Repair Costs
Unexpected breakdowns can be stressful. Here are common HVAC repair scenarios and their typical price range.
| HVAC Repair Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
Thermostat Replacement |
$150 – $450 |
Capacitor/Contactor Repair |
$200 – $400 |
Blower Motor Repair |
$400 – $700 |
Refrigerant Recharge (R410A) |
$300 – $600 |
Ignition or Flame Sensor Fix |
$150 – $350 |
Compressor Replacement |
$1,200 – $2,500 |
Emergency repairs outside normal business hours may incur additional fees.
Repair or Replace?
If repair costs exceed 40% of the value of a new system and your unit is over 10 years old, replacement may be the smarter financial choice.
Bi-Yearly HVAC Maintenance Plan Pricing
Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid costly breakdowns and keep your system energy-efficient year-round.
Maintenance Plan Options
| Plan Name | Included Service | Price |
|---|---|---|
Basic Tune-Up |
Filter check, airflow test |
$150 |
Standard Comfort Plan |
Coil cleaning, system calibration |
$250 |
Premium Plan |
Priority scheduling, 20-point inspection |
$350 |
Benefits of Routine Maintenance
Extend equipment lifespan
Improve indoor air quality
Maintain warranty coverage
Detect problems early
How to Get the Most Value from Your HVAC Investment
Choose Energy-Efficient Models
Higher SEER/AFUE-rated systems cost more upfront but save hundreds annually.
Consider Total Cost of Ownership
Don’t just look at install price—consider:
Utility bill savings
Maintenance expenses
Repair frequency
Take Advantage of Rebates & Tax Credits
We help customers access:
PG&E rebates for efficient systems
Federal tax credits (up to $2,000 for heat pumps)
Use a Trusted Local Contractor
Avoid “too good to be true” prices that lead to sloppy installs and long-term costs.
Why Choose FairPrice Heating & Cooling
FairPrice has proudly served homeowners throughout Santa Clara County and beyond since 2012. Here’s what sets us apart:
Transparent Pricing: No gimmicks. No guesswork.
Licensed & Insured: Peace of mind with every job.
24/7 Emergency Services: We’re here when you need us most.
Local Reputation: 5-star reviews across Yelp and Google.
Satisfaction Guarantee: We stand by our work 100%.
Serving:
Santa Clara, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Campbell, Mountain View, Milpitas, and more.
FAQs About HVAC Pricing
Why do HVAC prices vary so much?
Pricing depends on system type, efficiency, home size, labor, and regional permit costs.
Can I finance a new HVAC system?
Yes! FairPrice offers flexible financing plans through trusted partners.
Are maintenance plans really worth the money?
Absolutely. They prevent expensive repairs and extend equipment life.
How can I tell if I need a new HVAC system?
Watch for rising energy bills, frequent repairs, or inconsistent temperatures.