HVAC System Types Comparison
Compare costs, efficiency, lifespan, and features of every major HVAC system type to find the best fit for your home.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| System | Cost | Efficiency | Lifespan | Heats | Cools | Annual Operating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Air Conditioning | $3,800-$7,500 | 14-26 SEER2 | 15-20 yr | No | Yes | $800-$2,500 |
| Heat Pump (Ducted) | $4,100-$9,200 | 15-22 SEER2 / 8-13 HSPF2 | 15-20 yr | Yes | Yes | $600-$2,000 |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $2,000-$8,000 | 20-42 SEER2 | 20-25 yr | Yes | Yes | $400-$1,500 |
| Gas Furnace | $2,500-$6,800 | 80-98% AFUE | 15-20 yr | Yes | No | $500-$1,800 |
| Boiler (Hot Water/Steam) | $3,500-$10,000 | 80-98% AFUE | 20-30 yr | Yes | No | $600-$2,000 |
| Geothermal Heat Pump | $15,000-$35,000 | 300-600% efficiency (COP 3.0-6.0) | 25-50 (ground loop: 50+ years) yr | Yes | Yes | $300-$1,000 |
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Central Air Conditioning
Traditional split-system cooling for whole-home comfort through ductwork.
Cooling14-26 SEER215-20 year lifespan
$3,800 - $7,500
Operating: $800-$2,500/yr
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Heat Pump (Ducted)
Energy-efficient system providing both heating and cooling year-round.
HeatingCooling15-22 SEER2 / 8-13 HSPF215-20 year lifespan
$4,100 - $9,200
Operating: $600-$2,000/yr
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Ductless Mini-Split
Zoned heating and cooling without ductwork for flexible comfort control.
HeatingCooling20-42 SEER220-25 year lifespan
$2,000 - $8,000
Operating: $400-$1,500/yr
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Gas Furnace
Powerful forced-air heating using natural gas for cold climates.
Heating80-98% AFUE15-20 year lifespan
$2,500 - $6,800
Operating: $500-$1,800/yr
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Boiler (Hot Water/Steam)
Radiant heating through radiators or in-floor systems for even comfort.
Heating80-98% AFUE20-30 year lifespan
$3,500 - $10,000
Operating: $600-$2,000/yr
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Geothermal Heat Pump
Ground-source heating and cooling using the earth's stable temperature.
HeatingCooling300-600% efficiency (COP 3.0-6.0)25-50 (ground loop: 50+ years) year lifespan
$15,000 - $35,000
Operating: $300-$1,000/yr
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