The average cost to replace an air handler is $2,800
Replacing your air handler ensures efficient heating and cooling for enhanced indoor comfort.
Key cost factors include the size of your home, unit type, and labor expenses.
Expect an average investment of $2,800 to address potential repairs or upgrades, with prices ranging between $1,500 and $4,200.
Upgrading your air handler can significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Replacing an air handler costs between $1,500 and $4,200, including the unit and installation, with the average cost being $2,800. Prices rise or fall depending on the unit size, brand, and labor rates. Set a realistic budget and hire a licensed HVAC pro so your new unit can deliver 10 to 15 years of reliable home comfort.
Air handler replacement costs depend on your home’s cooling load and the specifications of your unit.
Contractors match air-handler size to your home’s square footage. Smaller homes (under 1,000 square feet) require lower-capacity units that start at $600, while larger homes necessitate more powerful models to distribute air evenly.
Layout, insulation, and window count also shape the system’s cooling load. A properly sized air handler boosts efficiency, while one that’s too small or too large drives up energy use and shortens equipment life. The table below outlines average air handler sizes and their associated costs.
| Tons | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1.5 | $1,500–$2,000 |
| 2.5 | $1,700–$2,400 |
| 3–3.5 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| 4–5 | $2,800–$4,200 |
There are several types of air handlers available, each varying in cost, design, power, and efficiency.
| Air Handler Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Single-speed | $1,500–$2,200 |
| Multi-stage | $2,000–$2,800 |
| Variable-speed | $2,800–$4,200 |
| Hydronic air handler | $2,500–$4,200 |
Single-speed air handlers are a standard system that ranges from $1,500 to $2,200. They operate at one fixed speed and provide consistent airflow. While affordable, they may lack the efficiency of other models.
Multi-stage air handlers range from $2,000 to $2,800 and feature two or more fan speeds. The system switches between these speeds based on demand, enabling enhanced efficiency over single-stage units.
Variable-speed air handlers cost $2,800 to $4,200. These models feature a motor that continuously varies speed in response to demand, allowing for precise airflow control and optimal energy efficiency.
Hydronic or chilled water air handler prices range from $2,500 to $4,200, with higher costs reflecting more powerful models. Hydronic handlers connect to a boiler or water-source heat pump. The heated or cooled water passes through the coil to warm or chill the air from the blower.
Air handler installation costs increase when the unit is located in a confined space, such as a tight attic, crawl space, closet, or rooftop. Extra time and materials are required to reach those spots safely, which increases labor costs.
You’ll need to consider labor, additional system replacements or repairs, and other factors influencing air handler replacement costs.
Labor often accounts for half the cost of air handler replacement. Most HVAC professionals charge between $60 and $150 per hour, which covers the removal of the old unit, preparation of the space, installation of the new handler, and testing of the system.
When replacing your air handler, other HVAC system components may also need to be replaced to ensure compatibility and optimal performance, increasing your total costs.
For example, installing a heat pump costs between $4,200 and $7,900, which includes the installation of an air handler.
If your ductwork is damaged, replacement or repair can enhance efficiency, improve air quality, and increase comfort. Replacing ductwork costs $10 to $40 per linear foot. If the ducts are in reasonably good condition but aren't dirty or clogged, cleaning ducts and vents costs $390.
You may need electrical upgrades if the new air handler draws more power than your current circuit can handle. Hiring an electrician costs between $50 and $130 per hour. Potential electrical repairs or upgrades include rewiring, upgrading circuit breakers, and installing dedicated circuits.
Fan coil unit costs depend on the size and type of the unit. Fan coils and air handlers are often referred to interchangeably, but they actually refer to different types of HVAC components that serve similar tasks.
Air handlers cool and move air to a new location in larger HVAC systems. Fan coils are smaller, localized devices that circulate air across a heat exchanger and into a room, often used in setups for a single room or as a single zone in a larger system. They’re most often used in apartments and commercial buildings. Like air handlers, fan coil units are available in several types. These types include:
Chilled water fan coil
Variable-speed fan coils
Compact fan coils
Multi-speed fan coils
Minor fixes—such as coil cleaning or a new blower motor—can extend a unit’s life for far less than a complete replacement, especially if the system is under 10 years old.
If your air handler requires frequent or costly repairs, replacement may be a more cost-effective option. Many homeowners opt for replacement if their air handler requires expensive parts, as these HVAC repairs cost up to 50% or more of the replacement cost. Replacement is especially advantageous if your air handler is outdated or nearing the end of its lifespan.
A new, high-efficiency air handler can boost buyer confidence and trim monthly bills. Homeowners often recoup half the project cost thanks to lower energy use and improved comfort—even if the payback isn’t as dramatic as a complete remodel.
Technically, a skilled DIYer could replace an air handler, but most homeowners are better off hiring a local HVAC technician. Installation requires high-voltage wiring, refrigerant handling, and local permitting—any misstep can void the warranty or create safety hazards.
Licensed technicians remove the old unit, make airtight duct and refrigerant connections, obtain permits, and test the system to ensure it runs safely and remains under warranty. Paying for expert labor now protects comfort—and your investment—for years.
Smart planning keeps upfront costs in check without cutting corners. Use these money-saving tips:
Collect detailed quotes from at least three licensed HVAC pros for a clear price comparison.
Look for off-season sales, clearance models, or reliable mid-tier brands.
Check utility, state, or federal rebates for energy-efficient equipment.
Bundle related upgrades—replacing the handler, ducts, or thermostat together can lower total labor fees and improve system compatibility.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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