What's actually in an AC replacement quote

Last checked October 29, 2026

An AC replacement price in Las Vegas usually means installed: the new equipment, labor, the pad, refrigerant lines, electrical hookup, the permit and hauling the old unit away. Ductwork, a crane for roof units, and a new thermostat are often extra. The biggest swing is whether you're replacing just the outside unit, the whole system, or a rooftop package unit.

First, which kind of system are you replacing?

Split systems are rated as a matched pair. The industry group that certifies them, AHRI, certifies the system as a whole, not each piece. That's why many installers won't swap just the outside unit, and why a matched system's AHRI certificate can matter for rebates.

What's usually included

A Las Vegas contractor lists these as typically in the price:

• The new outdoor unit and its matching indoor air handler or coil
• Refrigerant lines (line set), or reusing yours if they're compatible
• Electrical hookup
• A new pad for the outdoor unit
• Permit fees
• Removing and hauling away the old unit, with the refrigerant recovered, not vented

What's often extra

These are where quotes quietly differ. The ranges come from one Las Vegas contractor, so treat them as a rough guide:

Also confirm the electrical disconnect and the thermostat. The same contractor warns a missing disconnect can fail the permit inspection.

The refrigerant change, in one minute

New home AC systems made since January 1, 2025 use new refrigerants (mostly R-454B or R-32). They can use the same size refrigerant lines as the old R-410A systems, but they're not a drop-in: you can't put the new refrigerant in an old system or pair a new outdoor unit with an old R-410A coil. New systems also need a leak sensor. More in the sizing and refrigerant guide.

Get these in writing

1. Exact model numbers for every piece, and the AHRI certificate number for the matched system
2. Whether it's AC only, full system, heat pump or package unit
3. Ducts: included, minor changes, or not touched
4. Crane, permit, disconnect, thermostat, pad and haul-away: in or out
5. Parts warranty and labor warranty, separately, and who registers the equipment
6. The contractor's Nevada license number (how to check it)

With two quotes written this way, you can actually compare them. Then put the number into the quote checker.

Common questions

Does an AC replacement price include ductwork?

Usually not. One Las Vegas contractor lists minor duct changes at $500 to $2,000 and full duct replacement at $3,000 to $7,000 as add-ons. If ducts aren't named in the quote, assume they're not included.

What is a package unit?

A package unit puts the compressor, blower and coils in one cabinet, usually on the roof, with no separate indoor air handler. Local contractors say many Las Vegas homes have them. Replacing one often needs a crane.

Can I replace just the outside unit?

Sometimes, but split systems are rated as a matched pair, and AHRI certifies the pair, not each piece. Mismatched old and new parts can hurt efficiency, and a matched system's AHRI certificate may be needed for rebates. New-refrigerant outdoor units can't be paired with old R-410A coils.

Does the warranty cover labor?

Often not by default. Carrier, for example, gives a 5-year parts-only warranty unless you register within 90 days for a longer one, and labor is only covered under a specific dealer program. Ask the installer for the labor warranty in writing.

Sources

1. AHRI: How and why systems are certified as matched pairs
2. Bob's Repair: Las Vegas AC replacement cost (what's included, add-ons)
3. Bob's Repair: Why AC units are on roofs in Las Vegas
4. Lennox: 2025 refrigerant transition FAQ
5. Carrier: Residential warranty
6. DOE Energy Saver: Maintaining your air conditioner
7. City of Henderson: permit catalog (HVAC change-outs as appliance replacement)

Rules, rebates and prices change. If something here is out of date, tell us on the share page and we'll fix it.