Quick Answer
In New Cumberland, converting baseboard heat to central air costs about $13,000–$45,000+. Homes near Ridge Avenue, Court Street, and the riverfront usually fall around $25,000, including ductwork and electrical upgrades. The project replaces uneven heating and window ACs with quiet, efficient comfort that handles Hancock County’s humidity and hillside conditions.
Why New Cumberland Homes Are Converting
Many homes in town and along Gas Valley Road still use electric baseboard systems installed decades ago. These units are costly to run and provide no cooling—especially challenging in New Cumberland’s muggy river valley climate. A professionally designed central air system adds modern comfort, cleaner indoor air, and better home efficiency for both older and newer builds.
Cost Range and What Shapes It
Expect a total project budget from $13,000 to $45,000+, depending on home size, layout, and accessibility. Most older homes need new ductwork and a 200-amp electrical panel to support modern heat pumps. Finished basements and plaster ceilings add labor, while open-basement ranch homes near Pughtown Road are simpler retrofits. Careful duct planning keeps soffits minimal and airflow balanced across every floor.
Timeline and Construction Impact
Conversions take roughly 4–7 working days. Crews open limited wall or ceiling sections, install ducts, and patch surfaces cleanly. Contractors isolate work areas to reduce dust and protect flooring. In homes near Ridge Avenue’s older housing stock, route design is especially important to preserve aesthetics while improving air circulation throughout the home.
Choosing the Right System for New Cumberland
A ducted heat pump or furnace + AC combination offers the best blend of performance and value. Smaller hillside cottages and townhomes may prefer ductless mini-splits for efficient zoning and minimal renovation. Both options outperform baseboard heat in energy use and humidity control, keeping comfort consistent through the valley’s changing seasons.
FAQs
Do I need a new electrical panel for this conversion?
Yes—many New Cumberland homes still have 100-amp panels, which aren’t sufficient for heat pumps or dual-fuel systems.
Will central air help with river valley humidity?
Absolutely. Modern systems dehumidify and filter the air, improving comfort and indoor health.
How long does installation usually take?
Most projects are completed within a week, depending on accessibility and finish work.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes available at (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent
Alex Largent
Alex Largent is the Owner and Senior HVAC Efficiency Analyst at Honest Fix Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With more than 20 years of field experience, NATE and EPA certifications, and a hands-on leadership style, Alex teaches his team to fix systems right the first time — with transparency, precision, and no upsells. He writes about HVAC diagnostics, home energy efficiency, and practical maintenance advice for homeowners across the Upper Ohio Valley. Read Alex Largent’s full bio to learn more about his expertise in the HVAC and Plumbing industry. Updated October 2025.
