The answer to 'how much to replace air conditioner' is that the cost to replace an air conditioner can vary significantly depending on several factors. As a general range, most homeowners can expect to pay between $3,000 to $7,000 to replace a central air conditioning unit, including installation. The final price will depend on the size of your home, the efficiency rating of the new system, any necessary ductwork modifications, and the complexity of the installation.
It's important to get quotes from multiple HVAC contractors in your local area, as labor costs and equipment prices can vary. Be sure to consider the long-term energy savings of upgrading to a more efficient system, as this can offset some of the upfront replacement costs.