How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost in South Carolina?

When you think of South Carolina, you probably picture the beautiful beaches, historic cities, and top-ranked golf courses. But let’s be honest – the heat and humidity are just as memorable. Summers here can be downright brutal.

During those sweltering months, there are two places you want to be: by a refreshing pool or inside a well air-conditioned home. But if your AC struggled to keep up last year, chances are it won’t perform any better this season. In fact, it could lead to higher energy bills, reduced comfort, or even a total system breakdown.

If you’re facing the possibility of a replacement, your first question is likely: how much does a new air conditioner cost? Let’s explore the average AC prices in South Carolina and what can affect the cost.

The Cost of a New Air Conditioner in South Carolina

The average price of a 3-ton AC and furnace system in South Carolina is between $10,800 and $13,800, including installation.

What Can Affect the Cost of AC Replacement in SC?

Those are just estimates, though. The total cost of a new AC depends on a range of factors, including:

System Size

The size of your AC, measured in tons, plays a big role in the cost. A 3-ton unit is usually right for homes between 1,500 and 2,000 square feet. If your home needs a 4-ton (2,000-2,500 sq ft) or 5-ton (2,400-3,000 sq ft) system, expect to pay more, typically about $400 to $700 more per half-ton increase.

Efficiency

High-efficiency AC systems are more expensive upfront but can lower your monthly energy bills over time. The SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating tells you how efficient a unit is. The minimum SEER2 rating for the Southeast region is 14.3, but given how much you rely on your AC in South Carolina, a higher rating can be a smart investment in terms of lowering your energy costs.

Brand

As with cars or electronics, AC brands vary in quality and cost. Premium brands may come with higher price tags, but they often deliver greater reliability, stronger warranties, and longer lifespans. However, if you’re on a budget, there are more affordable brands that also offer reliability and efficient operation.

Motor Speed

AC systems come in single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed options.

• Single-stage units run at full blast or not at all and are the least efficient of the three options.
• Two-stage systems offer better efficiency by running at lower capacity on milder days.
• Variable-speed models adjust output in small increments for consistent comfort and improved efficiency.

While variable-speed systems offer the most benefits, they also come with higher upfront costs.

Labor and Installation

Installation costs depend on how difficult the job is and the contractor’s experience. Replacing a unit in the same location (which is common) is usually less expensive than relocating equipment or updating ductwork. If you’re installing your air conditioner during peak cooling season, you may also pay more due to higher demand as HVAC companies are typically swamped with repairs and replacements.

HVAC Add-Ons

Smart thermostats, zoning, and air purification systems aren’t always necessary, but they can improve comfort and efficiency. HVAC add-ons typically add a few hundred dollars or more to the total cost. In a humid state like South Carolina, better air circulation and indoor air quality can make these upgrades worth it.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC

• Your energy bills are rising. If your electric bill keeps going up but your usage hasn’t changed, your AC may be losing efficiency.
• Your system is 10-15+ years old. Most AC units in South Carolina last about 10 to 15 years. After that, efficiency declines and repairs become more frequent.
• You’re calling for repairs more often. Occasional AC repairs are normal. But if breakdowns are becoming a pattern and your HVAC company is on speed dial, consider putting your hard-earned money into buying a new system.
• Some rooms won’t stay cool. Uneven cooling or warm spots in your home could mean your system isn’t powerful enough, or it’s on its last leg.
• You hear strange noises. Grinding, banging, or rattling sounds often signal serious issues that could lead to a full breakdown. This often happens with systems that are aging and need to be replaced.
• Your home feels too humid. If your AC isn’t doing a good job of removing moisture, it may no longer be functioning properly, which is especially concerning in a humid climate like South Carolina.