How Much Does HVAC Replacement Cost in Denver?
Full HVAC system replacement (AC + furnace) in Denver runs $5,500 – $16,000 depending on efficiency tier and home size. Includes both units, labor, and permits.
HVAC Replacement Cost by Package
Replacing your AC and furnace together saves on labor and ensures the systems are properly matched. Here are our package tiers for an average Denver Metro home (1,700-2,500 sq ft):
| Package | What's Included | Average Home Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good | 3-ton 14 SEER AC + 80% furnace | $5,500 – $7,500 | Budget-conscious, rentals |
| Better ★ | 3-ton 16 SEER AC + 96% furnace | $8,000 – $11,000 | Best value — most homes |
| Best | 3-ton 20+ SEER AC + 98% furnace | $12,000 – $16,000 | Maximum efficiency |
| Heat Pump | 3-ton heat pump (heats & cools) | $7,000 – $14,000 | All-electric, rebate eligible |
When Should You Replace Your HVAC System?
Not every repair call means replacement. Here's when it usually makes financial sense:
- System is 15+ years old
- Repair costs more than 50% of new unit
- Uses R-22 refrigerant (phased out)
- Frequent breakdowns (3+ per year)
- Energy bills climbing despite maintenance
- System is under 10 years old
- First major repair
- Repair costs under $500
- Still using R-410A refrigerant
- Otherwise running well
Why Replace Both at the Same Time?
Replacing your AC and furnace together costs less than two separate jobs. You save $500-$1,500 on labor because the technician is already there, the ductwork connections are being made, and both systems can be sized and matched together.
Matched systems also perform better. A new 16 SEER AC paired with an old 80% furnace won't deliver the efficiency ratings either system is rated for. The blower motor, coil, and refrigerant lines all need to work together.
At Colorado altitude, proper matching is even more important. We size both systems together using Manual J calculations to ensure optimal performance at 5,000+ feet.
What's Included
Properly sized and paired for efficiency
Complete installed price
All county permits handled
Both units removed and disposed
Parts and compressor coverage
Full system test before we leave
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does HVAC replacement cost in Denver?
A full HVAC replacement (AC + furnace) in Denver costs $5,500-$16,000 depending on efficiency tier. The most popular package — 16 SEER AC with 96% furnace — runs $8,000-$11,000 for an average home.
Is it cheaper to replace AC and furnace together?
Yes. Replacing both saves $500-$1,500 on labor compared to two separate installations. Matched systems also perform more efficiently.
How long does full HVAC replacement take?
Most complete HVAC replacements are done in one day (6-10 hours). Complex jobs may extend to a day and a half.
Should I get a heat pump instead of AC + furnace?
If you're replacing both systems anyway, a heat pump is worth considering. It heats and cools in one unit and qualifies for Colorado rebates that AC-only systems don't.
How long will a new HVAC system last?
A well-maintained AC lasts 15-20 years. A furnace lasts 15-25 years. Annual maintenance is key to reaching those lifespans.