HVAC Replacement Costs in Boise, ID by Equipment Tier
Replacing a furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump in a Boise home is a bigger decision than a repair, and equipment tier, install scope, and local permitting all affect the final price. This guide breaks down what different tiers of equipment typically cost installed in the Treasure Valley, what the permit process involves, and how to compare quotes that may look very different on paper. For a look at repair costs and when replacement makes more sense, see our AC repair cost guide for Boise, and for the broader local market overview visit the Boise HVAC hub.
By Jason Green · HVAC · Published September 14, 2026 · 9 min read
Equipment tiers and what they cost installed
Standard-efficiency central AC paired with an existing furnace typically runs $4,200 to $8,000 installed in the Boise area, depending on system size and ductwork condition.
Mid-tier variable-speed systems with higher SEER ratings generally add $1,500 to $3,000 over standard-efficiency equipment but can qualify for Idaho Power incentives that offset part of the difference.
A full furnace and AC or heat pump replacement, including new ductwork modifications where needed, typically runs $8,000 to $16,000 depending on home size and equipment tier chosen.
Ductless mini-split systems for additions or homes without existing ductwork typically run $4,000 to $9,000 per zone depending on the number of indoor units.
What install scope typically includes
A standard changeout includes removing the old equipment, setting the new unit, connecting to existing ductwork and electrical, and startup testing, but does not include duct redesign or electrical panel upgrades.
Homes with older or undersized ductwork, common in parts of the North End and East End, may need duct modifications or sealing as part of the job, which adds cost but improves system performance.
A heat pump conversion from a gas furnace may also require electrical panel capacity checks, since heat pumps and backup electric heat draw more power than a standard gas furnace blower.
Permits and inspections for replacement work
A mechanical permit from the City of Boise Building Division is generally required for full equipment replacements inside city limits, and the contractor should include the permit fee and inspection scheduling in their quote.
Homes outside Boise city limits, including parts of unincorporated Ada County and neighboring cities like Meridian, Eagle, or Garden City, go through that local jurisdiction's building department instead.
A passed final inspection is worth keeping on file, both for warranty purposes and because it can matter when selling the home later. You can find more Boise-specific HVAC planning resources on the Boise HVAC hub.
Comparing quotes across equipment tiers
Ask each contractor for a load calculation specific to your home rather than a size based only on the old system, since ductwork changes or additions since the last install can shift the right equipment size.
Compare total installed cost, not just equipment price, since permit fees, disposal of old equipment, and warranty registration can vary between companies even for similar equipment.
If you want side-by-side quotes without contacting multiple companies yourself, you can get matched with vetted Boise HVAC pros for a replacement project.
Financing and incentives worth checking
Idaho Power's Heating and Cooling Efficiency Program offers incentives for qualifying central air conditioners, ducted heat pumps, and ductless heat pump installations, which can reduce the net cost of a higher-efficiency system.
Many contractors also offer financing plans for larger replacement projects, which is worth comparing against a home equity line if you are financing the purchase.
Confirm any incentive program's current eligibility requirements directly with Idaho Power before finalizing equipment choice, since program terms can change year to year.
Typical cost ranges
| Standard central AC (existing furnace) | $4,200 - $8,000 |
| Mid-tier variable-speed AC upgrade premium | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Full furnace + AC replacement | $8,000 - $16,000 |
| Ducted heat pump conversion | $9,000 - $17,000 |
| Ductless mini-split (per zone) | $4,000 - $9,000 |
| Mechanical permit fee (typical residential) | $75 - $250 |
Ranges are general estimates gathered from homeowner-reported quotes, not an offer or a quote for your project.
Common questions
What does a full HVAC replacement cost in Boise?
A full furnace and AC or heat pump replacement typically runs $8,000 to $16,000 depending on home size, ductwork condition, and equipment tier.
Do I need a permit to replace my furnace or AC in Boise?
Generally yes, for addresses inside Boise city limits a mechanical permit from the City of Boise Building Division is required for full equipment replacement.
Are there rebates for a new heat pump in Boise?
Idaho Power offers incentives for qualifying ducted and ductless heat pumps and central air conditioners through its Heating and Cooling Efficiency Program.
Is a ductless mini-split a good option for a Boise home?
It can be, especially for additions or homes without existing ductwork, though cost per zone should be weighed against a ducted system if multiple rooms need coverage.
How do I compare quotes that use different equipment brands?
Focus on total installed cost, efficiency rating, warranty terms, and whether the load calculation matches your home, rather than comparing brand names alone.
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