What a new AC costs in Savannah in 2026

What are the starting prices?

These are the published starting prices for standard work in Savannah and Chatham County. They assume a like-for-like changeout at standard efficiency, on ductwork and wiring that can be reused.

• 2 ton central AC, about 1,000 sq ft — From $5,495$5012345,401234901234567895012345
• 2.5 ton central AC, about 1,500 sq ft — From $5,995$5012345,90123456789901234567895012345
• 3 ton central AC, about 2,000 sq ft — From $6,495$60123456,401234901234567895012345
• 3.5–4 ton central AC, about 2,500 sq ft — From $7,995$701234567,90123456789901234567895012345
• 5 ton central AC, 3,000+ sq ft — From $9,495$90123456789,401234901234567895012345
• Complete HVAC system (AC + heating) — From $8,250$8012345678,2012501234500
• Heat pump installation — From $5,995$5012345,90123456789901234567895012345
• Ductless mini-split — From $3,600$30123,601234560000 / zone
• Gas furnace replacement — From $3,750$30123,701234567501234500

Why is a starting price only a starting price?

Two houses with the same square footage can need different equipment and very different amounts of work. The figure on an estimate moves with these, roughly in order of how often they matter:

• Capacity — set by a load calculation on your house, not by the size of the old unit
• Efficiency and staging — variable-speed and higher-efficiency equipment costs more up front
• Ductwork — sealing, resizing or replacing runs that cannot deliver the new system's airflow
• Electrical — a new disconnect, breaker or wiring where the old ones are undersized or worn
• Refrigerant lines, drains and the pad — whether the existing ones can be reused
• Access and permits — attic air handlers, tight closets, and the permit the job requires

Does the refrigerant change affect the price?

It can. Under EPA rules, new residential air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured since January 1, 2025 must use a refrigerant with a global warming potential of 700 or less, which in practice means R-454B or R-32 instead of R-410A. Equipment built before that date can still be installed.

The practical consequence is that the indoor coil and the outdoor unit have to be designed for the same refrigerant. Replacing only the outdoor half of an older system is rarely possible any more, which is one reason quotes for a full system look higher than people remember.

Are there rebates or tax credits in 2026?

Utility rebates can still apply. The cost and rebate estimator on this site lists the current programs for Georgia Power, Dominion Energy South Carolina and Santee Cooper customers; each utility sets its own amounts and eligibility.

The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (often called 25C) is a different matter. The IRS allows it only for qualifying property placed in service before December 31, 2025, so a system installed in 2026 does not qualify. Many articles online still describe the credit as current.

How do you compare two quotes fairly?

A cheaper quote is usually cheaper because something is missing from it. Before comparing the totals, check that both cover the same things:

• The calculated load, not just the tonnage of the old system
• Indoor and outdoor equipment as a matched pair, for the same refrigerant
• What is being done about the ductwork, if anything
• Electrical work, the drain, and removal of the old equipment
• Commissioning: refrigerant charge and airflow verified before the installer leaves

How do you pay for it?

Financing can be arranged through a lender on replacements, and the lender sets the rate, the term and the approval. Ask about it when you book the estimate, along with the military, senior and first-responder discounts.

Prices are starting points for standard work in the Savannah area. Final price depends on the system and site, and is confirmed before work begins. Permits and code-required upgrades may be additional.