3-ton AC unit cost
A 3-ton central air conditioner (36,000 BTU) costs about $3,300 to $4,800 for the unit and $5,800 to $7,800 installed at standard efficiency. It typically cools a home of about 1,500 – 2,100 square feet.
Quick answer
$5,800 – $7,800standard efficiency, installed
Expect to pay $5,800 to $7,800 for a 3-ton AC installed with a matching coil. The equipment alone is $3,300 to $4,800; two-stage and variable-speed models cost up to about $12,000.
3-ton AC price
A standard-efficiency 3-ton split system (outdoor condenser plus indoor coil) costs $3,300 to $4,800 for the equipment and $5,800 to $7,800 installed. Higher SEER2 ratings, two-stage compressors and premium brands push the price up.
- Outdoor unit + coil$3,300–$4,80060%
- Installation, materials and permit$2,500–$3,00040%
Share of a typical project, using the middle of each range.
Price by brand
| Brand | Installed price |
|---|---|
| Goodman | $4,000 – $5,600 |
| Rheem / Ruud | $3,400 – $7,200 |
| Carrier | $5,000 – $6,000 |
Brand ranges from published brand price guides; models and efficiency vary.
What size home does a 3-ton AC cool?
About 1,500 to 2,100 square feet in a moderate climate, using roughly 20 BTU per square foot. In hot, sunny climates the same unit may cover less; in well-insulated homes, more. Neighboring sizes: 2.5 tons, 3.5 tons. Check with our AC size calculator.
Repair costs for this size
| Repair | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Compressor replacement | $2,000 – $2,600 |
| Evaporator coil (parts and labor) | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| Condenser replacement | $1,400 – $3,100 |
| Refrigerant charge | about 6 – 12 lbs |
Bigger units hold more refrigerant and use larger compressors and coils, so major repairs cost more.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a 3-ton AC unit installed?
About $5,800 to $7,800 for a standard-efficiency 3-ton central AC with installation, or $3,300 to $4,800 for the unit alone.
How many square feet does a 3-ton AC cool?
Roughly 1,500 to 2,100 square feet, depending on climate, insulation, windows and ceiling height.
How many BTU is a 3-ton AC?
36,000 BTU per hour. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.