What is the typical cost of installing central air in a 1500 square foot house that has base board heat?

Answer 1

Depending on what is involved in the ducting of the house, I don`t see a legitimate contractor who will do a quality job coming in with a bid of less than $15,000 or $20,000. Of course that is here in NJ, your area may be less or more but probably not by too much. As a reference, in Connecticut where I am I have had 2 separate "legitimate contractors" quote me between $12,000 and $16,500 for 6 different units ranging in manuafacturers from Goodman, Amana and Carrier. All were for 3 ton units in a 2200 sf capcod style home. From what I've heard, the type of home (1 story, raised ranch, cape, 2 story colonial) has alot to do with the cost of running the ductwork. Also, depending on if the contrator can put part of the unit in the attic or basement can effect the cost.