Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Pay to Install a Goodman 2.5-Ton 13.4 SEER2 Package AC in 2025

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Introduction

If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, I know what you’re thinking — “How much is this really going to cost me?”

And that’s a fair question. Whether you’re replacing an old 10 SEER system that finally gave up or upgrading to something quieter and more efficient, understanding the real cost of your install is key.

Let me be straight with you — HVAC pricing can feel like a guessing game. Some contractors toss out numbers that sound like they’re quoting a used car. But if you break it down — piece by piece — it all makes sense.

The Goodman 2.5-Ton 13.4 SEER2 Self-Contained Horizontal Package AC Unit is one of the best budget-friendly systems on the market for small to midsize homes. It’s efficient, rugged, and easier to install than traditional split systems.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what you’ll pay in 2025 — from the base unit to labor, permits, pad installation, electrical upgrades, and even your first year’s energy bill.

By the end, you’ll know what’s worth spending on, what’s optional, and how to avoid getting overcharged.

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1. Equipment Cost: The Goodman Advantage

Let’s start with the main event — the equipment itself.

The Goodman 2.5-Ton 13.4 SEER2 horizontal package unit is built for simplicity. Everything — the compressor, condenser, blower, and evaporator coil — lives inside one outdoor cabinet. That means no indoor air handler, no refrigerant line sets, and no messy indoor coil to deal with.

Average 2025 Retail Price:

💲 $2,650 – $3,000

This covers the factory-charged R-410A refrigerant (R-32 versions coming soon), 13.4 SEER2 compliance with DOE standards, and Goodman’s 10-year parts warranty once registered.

If you buy through a certified online dealer, you’ll likely save $400–$800 compared to a full markup through a local contractor.

(Energy Star HVAC Systems Overview)

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2. Labor Costs: What You’ll Pay the Pros

Installation is where costs vary the most. The good news? Package units are among the easiest systems to install because they’re self-contained. There’s no indoor unit to wire up, no refrigerant charging to mess with, and no attic crawling.

Average Labor Cost (2025):

So, you’re looking at $4,500 to $5,800 total installed cost for most projects.

(HomeAdvisor HVAC Cost Calculator)

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3. Permits and Inspections

Here’s one homeowners forget about: permits.
Most counties require a mechanical permit for any new HVAC installation — especially if electrical or structural work is involved.

Expect:

• $75–$350 total, depending on local jurisdiction

• Includes final inspection after install

• Ensures insurance compliance and resale value

In stricter states like California or Florida, additional airflow and refrigerant verification tests may be required (adds $100–$200).

(ICC Mechanical Code Permit Requirements)

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4. Mounting and Placement Costs

A big reason people choose the Goodman horizontal package unit is flexibility — it works on the ground, a patio slab, or even a roof.

If you’re replacing an existing package unit on the same pad, you might not need new mounting at all.

(AHRI Installation Standards)

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5. Electrical and Ductwork Adjustments

Most of the time, if you’re swapping a similar-tonnage system, your ductwork will fit right back up. But I’ve seen older homes with undersized or leaky ducts that ruin efficiency.

Ductwork

• Minor sealing: $200–$600

• Full replacement (older homes): $2,000–$4,000

• Insulation upgrades (in attics): $400–$800

Electrical

• New 240V disconnect: $150–$300

• Upgraded breaker/wiring: $300–$600

If your old unit was a smaller tonnage or used a lower amp draw, upgrading the wiring keeps you within code.

(Energy.gov — Duct Sealing and Efficiency)

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6. Accessories That Add Value

Here’s where you can boost comfort and protection for minimal extra cash.

I always tell customers — install a surge protector. It’s the cheapest insurance you’ll ever buy for your AC.

(Energy Star Smart Thermostat Benefits)

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7. Regional Cost Differences

Your ZIP code matters more than you think. Labor, freight, and building codes all affect the bottom line.

I’m based in South Carolina — and I’ll tell you, in our region, you can get this whole setup done for around $5K flat, done right and ready to run.

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8. Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

A 13.4 SEER2 package unit might not sound “ultra high-efficiency,” but it hits the sweet spot between affordability and comfort.

A 2.5-ton system running 8 hours a day for 5 months will use about 3,000–3,500 kWh per cooling season.
At $0.15 per kWh, that’s $450–$525 in annual cooling costs.

Compare that to a 20-year-old 10 SEER unit, which burns $700+ a year. That’s a $175–$225 annual savings — without even upgrading your insulation.

(Energy Star Efficiency Standards 2025)

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9. Rebates and Incentives

Federal credits focus mostly on heat pumps now, but local utilities still offer $50–$250 rebates for efficient package installs.

You can search your zip code at DSIRE for rebates on high-efficiency AC systems, duct sealing, or smart thermostat installation.

If you upgrade to a dual-fuel or heat pump package later, you may qualify for up to $2,000 under the Inflation Reduction Act.

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10. Maintenance and Long-Term Cost

One of the big perks of the Goodman horizontal package is low upkeep. Everything’s in one place, so service time (and cost) drops significantly.

Add it all up, and annual maintenance runs $250–$300 total — less than half what older systems cost to maintain.

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11. Warranty Coverage and Protection

Goodman gives you a 10-year limited parts warranty, which is outstanding for this price range.
Just make sure you register your unit within 60 days of install.

Covered:

• Compressor

• Coils

• Functional components (capacitors, contactors, fan motors)

Not covered:

• Labor (after first year)

• Improper installation

• Storm or pest damage

Keep your invoice handy — warranty claims require proof of professional installation.

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12. Real-World Example — Tony’s South Carolina Install

A couple in Spartanburg called me last summer when their 20-year-old split system bit the dust. Attic access was a nightmare, so we swapped it for a Goodman horizontal package instead.

The homeowners immediately noticed quieter operation, stronger airflow, and a 25% drop in their first electric bill.

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13. Long-Term ROI

Here’s the math:

By year seven, your Goodman has already paid for itself — and still has warranty protection left.

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14. How to Avoid Overpaying

A few of Tony’s golden rules:

1. Always get 3 quotes — and make sure each includes equipment and labor separately.

2. Buy your own thermostat — don’t pay 3× markup through installers.

3. Ask for off-season discounts. Spring installs are cheaper than summer emergencies.

4. Don’t skip the permit. A failed inspection later will cost more.

5. Register your warranty. It’s free, and it doubles your coverage.

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15. Final Thoughts: The Smart Middle Ground

The Goodman 2.5-Ton 13.4 SEER2 Self-Contained Horizontal Package Unit hits the balance most homeowners want — simple install, strong performance, and reliability without the premium price tag.

When you factor in all costs — equipment, labor, pad, permits, and accessories — you’re looking at around $5,500 on average for a fully installed, code-compliant, long-lasting system.

It’s the kind of setup that doesn’t overcomplicate things. It cools your home, keeps your bills low, and doesn’t demand constant maintenance.

If you’re after no-nonsense comfort that just works, this Goodman package unit delivers.

Tony will explain more about what rating really means for your energy bills and comfort in the next blog.