A new AC unit in Texas costs $6,500–$14,000+ installed depending on system size, efficiency tier, brand, and installation complexity. This guide breaks down exactly what drives cost so you can evaluate any quote you receive — before signing anything.
These ranges reflect Spring TX and North Houston market rates in 2026. The difference between a $7,000 and $12,000 quote for the same home is usually equipment tier and installation scope — not contractor markup.
| System Size | Comfort (16.5 SEER2) | Performance (18 SEER2) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-ton (up to ~1,000 sq ft) | $6,500–$8,000 | $8,500–$10,500 |
| 3-ton (~1,200–2,000 sq ft) | $7,500–$9,500 | $9,500–$12,000 |
| 4-ton (~2,000–2,800 sq ft) | $8,500–$11,000 | $11,000–$13,500 |
| 5-ton (~2,800–3,500 sq ft) | $10,000–$13,000 | $13,000–$16,000 |
Installed price includes equipment, labor, permits, and standard installation. Duct work modifications, electrical upgrades, or unusual access billed separately.
Use our free online cost estimator to get a starting range before scheduling an in-home estimate.
The biggest source of quote confusion is scope. A complete installation should include all of these — if a quote is unusually low, ask which items are excluded:
The low-quote trap: A $5,500 quote that excludes lineset, permits, and disposal vs. a $7,500 quote that includes everything — the total cost may be the same or the cheaper quote may end up more expensive once extras are added.
Single-stage operation. Runs at 100% or off. Dependable cooling for Spring TX homes that need a reliable replacement without moving into a higher equipment tier.
Two-stage operation. Runs at ~65% on mild days for longer, quieter cycles that remove significantly more humidity. Escalates to 100% in peak Texas heat.
The Performance premium ($2,000–$3,000) typically pays back in 3–5 years through energy savings in Texas's 9–10 month cooling season.
Rated 5.0 · 700+ Google reviews · Read all reviews
"Honest diagnosis, same-day service, and fair pricing. They explained everything clearly before starting any work."— Spring TX homeowner, 77386
"Another company quoted $4,200 for a compressor. Expo found a bad capacitor — total bill was $180. That's the kind of honesty that earns a customer for life."— Harmony, Spring TX
"Used the online estimator first, then booked an in-home estimate. No pressure, clear comparison of both Carrier options, install was perfect."— Klein area, 77388
A new AC unit installed in Texas costs $6,500–$14,000+ depending on system size (tonnage), efficiency tier (SEER2 rating), brand, and installation complexity. A 3-ton Carrier Comfort (16.5 SEER2) runs $7,500–$9,500 installed. A 3-ton Carrier Performance (18 SEER2) runs $9,500–$12,000 installed in Spring TX.
System size depends on a Manual J load calculation that accounts for square footage, ceiling height, insulation, windows, and local climate. As a rough guide: 2 tons for up to ~1,000 sq ft, 3 tons for ~1,200–2,000 sq ft, 4 tons for ~2,000–2,800 sq ft. Never let a contractor size your system by matching old tonnage without a load calculation.
For most Spring TX homeowners staying 5+ years, the Carrier Performance 18 SEER2 offers better long-term value. Its two-stage operation provides significantly better humidity control in Spring TX's 70–80% summer humidity — and the energy savings typically recover the $2,000–$3,000 premium within 3–5 years.
Since January 2023, all new residential AC systems sold in Texas must meet a minimum of 15.2 SEER2. Both the Carrier Comfort (16.5 SEER2) and Carrier Performance (18 SEER2) exceed this minimum.
Yes — financing is available on qualifying AC replacement projects through ServiceFinance. 0% promotional terms are available. A $8,000 system at 0% for 60 months = $133/month — often similar to or less than the monthly electricity savings a new system generates vs. an aging one.
1827 Riley Fuzzel Rd Suite C, Spring TX 77386
Serving Harmony, Benders Landing, Legends Ranch, Imperial Oaks, Spring Trails, The Woodlands.
19507 Wied Rd Suite B, Spring TX 77388
Serving Klein, Champion Forest, Vintage Park, Gleannloch Farms, Tomball, Cypress.
