Installing a new air conditioning system represents a significant home improvement investment. At Purcell Heating and Air, we believe in transparent, comprehensive cost information that allows Calgary homeowners to plan effectively. This guide breaks down the real costs of quality AC installation for 2025.
Equipment Cost Range: $3,000-$4,500
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, smaller homes, shorter-term residency plans
Typical Annual Energy Cost: $450-$550 for 2,000 sq ft home
Warranty: Typically 5-7 years on parts
Equipment Cost Range: $4,500-$6,500
Best For: Average Calgary homes, balanced efficiency/cost concerns, 10+ year occupancy plans
Typical Annual Energy Cost: $350-$450 for 2,000 sq ft home
Warranty: Typically 10 years on parts
Equipment Cost Range: $6,500-$9,500
Best For: Larger homes, energy-conscious homeowners, maximum comfort requirements
Typical Annual Energy Cost: $250-$350 for 2,000 sq ft home
Warranty: Typically 10+ years on parts with extended options
1.5 Ton Unit: Suitable for homes up to 1,000 sq ft (Base cost)
2 Ton Unit: 1,000-1,500 sq ft (+10-15% cost)
2.5 Ton Unit: 1,500-2,000 sq ft (+15-20% cost)
3 Ton Unit: 2,000-2,500 sq ft (+25-30% cost)
3.5+ Ton Unit: 2,500+ sq ft (+35-45% cost)
Standard equipment mounting
Basic electrical connections
Refrigerant line installation
System pressure testing
Initial system charging
Basic thermostat setup
Standard condensate drainage
Basic system testing
Average Cost Range: $1,500-$2,500
New or upgraded electrical service: $300-$1,200
Condensate pump installation: $150-$300
Thermostat upgrades: $150-$500
Ductwork modifications: $500-$2,000
Line set replacement or extension: $300-$800
Roof/wall penetrations: $200-$500
Equipment relocation: $500-$1,500
Concrete pad installation: $200-$500
Whole-home air purification: $500-$1,500
Programmable/smart thermostats: $200-$600
Zoning systems: $2,000-$3,500
Duct sealing and insulation: $500-$1,500
Surge protection: $150-$400
Extended warranties: $300-$800
For a typical 2,000 sq ft Calgary home in 2025:
Basic Package: 3-ton, 14 SEER system with standard installation
System cost: $4,500
Basic installation: $2,000
Total investment: $6,500
Optimal Value Package: 3-ton, 16 SEER system with enhanced installation
System cost: $5,500
Enhanced installation: $2,500
Smart thermostat: $350
Basic duct improvements: $500
Total investment: $8,850
Premium Comfort Package: 3-ton, 20 SEER variable-speed system
System cost: $8,500
Premium installation: $3,000
Zoning system: $2,500
Air purification: $1,000
Smart thermostat: $500
Comprehensive duct renovation: $1,500
Extended warranty: $600
Total investment: $17,600
Energy Savings: $200-$500 annually depending on efficiency upgrade
Maintenance Savings: $150-$300 annually compared to older systems
Home Value Increase: 5-10% of system cost typically reflected in home value
Comfort Improvement: Immeasurable but significant quality of life enhancement
Extended Equipment Life: 3-5 additional years with professional installation
Monthly payment plans: from $80-$300 depending on system and term
Energy efficiency rebates: $250-$1,500 depending on system efficiency (Note: Calgary and Alberta offer heat pump rebates, which might apply to certain AC systems that also provide heating, potentially up to $10,000 depending on the system type and eligibility through programs like the Canada Greener Homes Grant or the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) which also offers financing at a 3.75% interest rate in 2025).
Manufacturer rebates: $300-$1,000 on select systems throughout the year
Tax credits: Check current federal incentives for high-efficiency systems (Canada Greener Homes Grant offers grants up to $5,000 for eligible retrofits, including a smart thermostat for $50 when combined with another energy-efficiency upgrade, and up to $600 for pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations).
For a precise, no-obligation quote on your AC installation, contact Purcell Heating and Air at (403) 312-9099. Learn more about our professional installation services at our dedicated AC installation page. For Calgary-specific service information, visit www.purcellheating.ca/calgary/.
