When it comes to commercial air conditioning, there’s a lot more to think about than just cooling. Business owners, property managers, and even small warehouse operators often ask me:
“Jake, how much is a commercial air conditioner going to cost?”
It’s not a simple question—because the commercial air conditioner price depends on the unit size, efficiency, installation complexity, and your building’s unique needs. Over the years, I’ve installed everything from small rooftop units to large 20-ton systems, so I’ve seen what drives costs up—and what you can do to save.
For reference on high-efficiency systems and modern installation practices, check out the Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 R-32 bundle. While this is a residential system, many of the efficiency principles and installation considerations apply to commercial AC as well.
In this article, I’m covering everything you need to know about:
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Different types of commercial AC units
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Average commercial air conditioning unit prices
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Sizing options like 3-ton and 5-ton commercial AC units
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Installation considerations for small rooftop heating and air conditioning units
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How to compare brands and avoid overpaying
Types of Commercial Air Conditioning Units
Understanding the type of system you need is the first step toward figuring out cost. Commercial AC systems come in several forms:
1. Packaged Rooftop Units (RTUs)
These are the most common units for commercial buildings. All components—compressor, condenser, evaporator, and sometimes heating—are contained in one box, usually installed on the roof. Benefits include:
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Compact design
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Easy maintenance access
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No indoor space required
For small buildings, RTUs can range from 3 ton commercial AC units to 5 tons or larger. According to HVAC.com, rooftop units are a popular choice for small to medium commercial spaces because they combine air conditioning and heating in one system.
2. Split Systems
Like residential split systems, commercial split systems separate the condenser outdoors from the air handler inside. They offer:
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Flexibility in placement
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Potential for multiple indoor units
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Easier zoning options
Split systems are typically used in offices, retail spaces, or areas where rooftop installation isn’t possible.
3. Ductless Mini-Splits
Mini-splits are a good solution for small commercial spaces or retrofits. They don’t require ductwork and can be installed room by room. They are more expensive per ton but reduce installation complexity.
Factors Affecting Commercial AC Unit Cost
When calculating commercial air conditioner cost, several factors come into play:
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Capacity (Tonnage)
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3 ton commercial air conditioner: Suitable for smaller offices or retail spaces (~1,500–2,500 sq ft).
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5 ton commercial air conditioning unit: Ideal for medium-sized offices, restaurants, or small warehouses.
Larger units are more expensive upfront but can save energy when properly sized.
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Efficiency Ratings
Look for units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. Higher efficiency units cost more initially but save on electricity bills long term. The U.S. Department of Energy offers resources on energy-efficient commercial systems. -
Heating Capability
Some commercial AC heat units include a furnace or electric heating coil. Dual-purpose units are more expensive but save space and simplify installation. -
Installation Complexity
Factors like rooftop access, ductwork modification, and electrical upgrades significantly affect the total cost. Consumer Reports notes that professional installation is critical to ensure warranties and system longevity. -
Brand
Commercial AC brands range from premium to budget. Popular brands include Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Rheem, and Goodman. Brand choice affects both unit price and long-term service availability.
Average Commercial Air Conditioning Unit Prices
Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for common commercial units:
| Unit Type | Size | Equipment Cost | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rooftop Package Unit | 3 ton | $4,500–$6,500 | $7,000–$9,500 |
| Rooftop Package Unit | 5 ton | $6,500–$10,000 | $10,000–$15,000 |
| Split System | 3 ton | $3,500–$5,500 | $6,500–$8,500 |
| Split System | 5 ton | $5,500–$9,000 | $9,500–$14,000 |
| Ductless Mini-Split | 3 ton | $5,000–$7,500 | $7,500–$10,000 |
Pro Tip: Always get multiple quotes and ensure all contractors include labor, permits, and electrical work in their estimates. Some quotes may seem lower because they don’t include all necessary installation steps.
Small Rooftop Heating and Air Conditioning Units Prices
Small businesses often need compact rooftop units that provide both heating and cooling. The price depends on:
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Tonnage: 2–5 ton units are typical.
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Heating type: Electric vs. gas.
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Efficiency: Higher SEER = higher cost but lower energy bills.
For example, a 3-ton small rooftop heating and air conditioning unit might range from $7,500–$9,500 installed, while a 5-ton unit could reach $12,000–$15,000.
For energy efficiency tips, see ENERGY STAR commercial AC guide.
Maintenance and Operational Costs
Commercial AC units require regular maintenance to keep costs low and extend lifespan:
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Filter changes every 1–3 months
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Coil cleaning annually
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Professional inspection for refrigerant levels and electrical connections
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Duct cleaning periodically to maintain airflow
Failing to maintain your system can increase your commercial air conditioner cost over time due to repairs and higher energy bills.
Choosing the Right 3 Ton or 5 Ton Commercial AC Unit
When selecting your commercial air conditioner, consider:
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Size of the space: Avoid oversizing or undersizing your unit.
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Usage patterns: Offices vs. restaurants vs. warehouses.
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Installation environment: Rooftop, indoor mechanical room, or ductless.
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Budget: Include both upfront and long-term operational costs.
HVAC.com provides a helpful cost estimator for commercial systems, which can help compare 3-ton vs. 5-ton units.
Popular Commercial Air Conditioner Brands
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Trane: Premium, reliable, high efficiency
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Carrier: Quiet and efficient, with broad service availability
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Lennox: High SEER ratings, suitable for small to medium commercial spaces
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Goodman: Reliable and cost-effective, with strong warranties
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Rheem: Balanced price and efficiency for commercial applications
For detailed brand comparisons, consult Modernize.
Real-World Example: 5 Ton Commercial AC Pricing
Imagine you own a small office needing a 5 ton commercial HVAC unit:
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Equipment: $8,000
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Installation: $4,500
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Electrical upgrades: $1,500
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Permits & inspections: $500
Total: ~$14,500 installed
This aligns with national averages and provides both cooling and heating when paired with dual-purpose commercial AC heat units.
Key Takeaways from Jake Lawson
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Always size your unit based on a proper load calculation.
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Factor in installation complexity, ductwork, and electrical requirements.
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Choose a reputable brand with strong service support.
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Compare multiple quotes to avoid overpaying.
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Include maintenance costs when calculating long-term expenses.
A well-chosen commercial air conditioning system not only keeps employees and customers comfortable but also reduces energy costs and extends equipment life.
