A basic inspection for a single HVAC unit usually runs between $250 and $450, with the average cost being around $300. However, the cost of your inspection can vary depending on system size and complexity, the unit’s age, and other variables.
If you have a bigger system or multiple units to inspect, it can cost upwards of $550. Additionally, if specialized services like video inspection are needed, that could drive up the price. On the other hand, newer or simpler systems may only cost $100 to inspect.
An HVAC inspection consists of a pro tech checking your system for mechanical issues, air filters and coils, the condensate drain, gas lines, wiring, and efficiency. Plus, they will look for potential safety issues, provide maintenance advice, and recommend repairs or adjustments if need be.
On this page:
- Average Costs
- HVAC Inspection Costs by Unit Type
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Related Services
- Cost by Location
- FAQ
Average HVAC Inspection Costs in 2023
| National Average Cost | $300 |
| Typical Price Range | $250 – $450 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $100 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $550 |
When it comes to HVAC systems, it’s essential to get an inspection regularly. A professional technician will be able to diagnose any potential issues and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements before they become more significant problems down the line. The cost of an HVAC inspection typically varies from $250 to $450 depending on several factors, such as:
- System type and complexity
- Inspection extent
- House size
- Location
Nationwide, the average cost for an HVAC inspection is about $300 per visit. A basic inspection includes checking the system’s functionality, inspecting ductwork for air leaks, testing safety controls, measuring airflow and temperature levels, and checking for any other signs of potential system failure.
At the extreme ends of the cost scale, an HVAC inspection may range anywhere from $100 to $550, depending on the examination type. A comprehensive (high-end) examination would include testing the system’s performance, evaluating its overall condition and components, examining energy usage, and providing a written report.
A pro technician can offer insight into how your system can become more efficient and reduce energy costs.
HVAC Inspection Costs by Unit Type
The total cost of an HVAC inspection can vary depending on the type of unit you have installed, its age, and the complexity of the inspection. Generally, a basic HVAC system inspection will cost between $250 and $450, as most inspections take an hour or two to complete.
If your HVAC system has more than one unit, or the tech needs to check components that are difficult to access, then you can expect the inspection cost to increase. On average, inspections can cost as much as $550 or more in these cases.
Here is a look at the cost of a basic HVAC inspection for different types of systems:
Air Conditioner
Regular inspection and maintenance of an air conditioning system are necessary for keeping it in optimal working order, especially in the summer when you need it most. If not properly maintained, the air conditioner can become inefficient, possibly leading to more frequent repairs and an increase in energy bills.
The cost of inspecting an AC unit depends on its size, type, and age. Typically, an inspection costs about $100 to $150, not including any repair costs. Note that prices may be higher if any components need replacing or the AC has been idle for a long time.
Some of the main tasks an HVAC professional will perform during an AC system inspection include:
✓ Checking the thermostat settings
✓ Examining the condenser and evaporator coils
✓ Testing the air blower
✓ Inspecting the electrical connections
✓ Checking refrigerant levels and pressure readings
✓ Checking safety devices and controls
✓ Providing repair or replacement recommendations
During the inspection, the technician may also undertake tasks such as cleaning the motor and other system components, lubricating the moving parts, or replacing air filters.
Furnace
Furnaces are essential for keeping homes warm and cozy in the cold months, but they need regular check-ups in order to keep running smoothly. A typical inspection will run you between $75 and $150, depending on the furnace type, your home’s size, and other factors.
Typically, heating system services will include an inspection of the burners, filters, fans, and other furnace components in their maintenance packages.
Here is a short list of services that are usually included in a furnace inspection:
✓ Inspect burners and combustion chamber for proper operation
✓ Check filters
✓ Check for any carbon monoxide leaks (only gas and oil furnaces)
✓ Examine all electrical components for proper operation
✓ Test the thermostat for accuracy and proper function
✓ Inspect the flue system for proper venting
✓ Check the air ducts and registers to ensure they are not blocked or leaking
Boiler
When inspecting boilers, it pays to take the right precautions. By ensuring all components are working properly, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and ensure safety at all times. Usually, this inspection will set you back between $100 and $250, but more complex systems may cost more.
The technician will fully examine your boiler, ensuring there are no leaks and that water and fuel levels are adequate. Additionally, they’ll take a look at the pressure-relief valve and make sure there aren’t any combustion or ventilation issues. Otherwise, hazardous gases could be released into the air.
Heat Pump Inspection Cost
Heat pumps are an efficient and reliable type of HVAC system for your home, delivering both heating and cooling. To keep your heat pump running smoothly and save money in the long run, you need to get it inspected regularly.
On average, this inspection service costs between $100 and $250. HVAC inspectors look at the refrigerant levels, electrical connections, filters, fan motor, plumbing connection, and condition of the components. Plus, they check for any leaks and adjust the thermostat.
Air Ducts
Air ducts play an essential role in your home’s HVAC system, working to circulate air and maintain a comfortable temperature. Regular inspections are key to ensuring your system is working efficiently, and there’s no contamination entering the house via the ducts.
On average, air duct inspections cost between $80 and $150 and generally take an hour or two. The pro will examine both the inside and outside, measuring air pressure and cleaning the dirt out of the ducts. They’ll often use specialized video technology to check for any damage or contaminants. If anything needs repairs, that’ll add to the final bill.
Supplementary HVAC Units Inspection
A regular inspection of secondary HVAC units may not always be part of the plan, but it’s crucial to check them out every now and then. This can keep them running smoothly and make sure they are in proper working order.
Attic fans, air handlers, roof ventilators, and radiant flooring are just a few of the items that might need further inspection. On average, these inspections usually cost between $80 and $250. The tech will inspect fan blades, motors, and electrical connections to spot any wear or damage.
| HVAC Unit | Average Cost |
| Roof Vent | $80 – $150 |
| Attic Fan | $75 – $100 |
| Radiant Flooring | $100 – $125 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Besides the HVAC system type and size, many other factors will affect the cost of an inspection. For instance, labor and travel costs can add up. If the system is difficult to access or requires testing equipment or special tools, this could increase the price, too.
Labor Costs
The labor cost for an HVAC inspection comes down to how complex the job is. A basic inspection can usually be completed in just an hour or two, while more involved ones could take up to four hours. Your HVAC technician will likely charge by the hour, anywhere from $60 to $150, on average. Plus, keep in mind that there might be additional fees for any cleaning or filter replacement, as well as costs for materials.
Travel Fees
Sometimes, HVAC professionals charge extra to travel to a remote location. This fee will typically depend on how far they need to travel. Generally, you can expect to pay about $25 to $50 for each trip.
HVAC Inspection for Homebuyers
For those looking to buy a home, it’s essential to have the HVAC system inspected before signing any papers. An inspection can help identify potential system issues before committing to the purchase. It can also provide peace of mind that the system will be reliable and efficient for years to come.
Depending on the size and complexity of the system, an inspection can cost between $100 and $550. This fee usually covers the cost of labor, travel fees, and any additional services that may be needed.
Related Services
Following the inspection, an HVAC technician may recommend additional services to ensure your HVAC system runs optimally and safely. These could include regular check-ups, filter replacements, repairs, or upgrades.
HVAC Maintenance Services Cost
Regular maintenance helps to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, preventing costly repairs and energy waste. On average, HVAC maintenance services cost anywhere from $85 to $170, depending on the type of system you have in your home and its size.
Some HVAC contractors offer packages that include seasonal tune-ups and discounts on parts and labor. Typically, this coverage ranges from $150 to $500 a year, but prices vary by company.
Here are some of the services typically included in a maintenance package, along with their associated costs:
| Service Type | Average Cost |
| Changing Air Filters | $10 – $40 |
| Evaporator and Condenser Coil Cleaning | $80 – $380 |
| Checking & Refill Freon Levels | $65 – $100/ per pound |
| HVAC Cleaning | $280 – $630 |
| Air Duct Cleaning | $300 – $700 |
| Drain Line Cleaning | $80 – $400 |
| Refrigerant Leak | $210 – $1,200 |
You can perform some of the basic preventive maintenance tasks on your own to keep the system in tip-top shape between inspections. Follow this HVAC maintenance checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything important.
HVAC Repair Cost
The cost of repairing your HVAC system can vary significantly depending on the type of repair required. Minor repairs may cost as little as $75, while a full system replacement could be as high as $3,000, including installation. If your system is older or has bigger issues, replacing it may be more cost-effective than repairing it.
HVAC Installation Cost
The national average price of installing a new HVAC system typically ranges from $5,000 to $9,000 in total, though it could be higher or lower depending on your home’s size, the type of system you choose, and any additional services, such as ductwork installation.
In the following table, you can see the average prices of HVAC installation for several common types of systems:
| HVAC Type | Average Cost (Installed) |
| Air Conditioner | $3,500 – $8,000 |
| Furnace | $2,383 – $6,110 |
| Heat Pump | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Ductless Air Conditioning | $3,000 – $9,500 |
| Boiler | $3,500 – $8,500 |
| Ductwork | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Emergency HVAC Service
The cost of emergency HVAC services can vary depending on the specific issue, but it’s often higher than typical repair or maintenance costs. On average, emergency HVAC services can cost anywhere from $160 to $250 per hour.
HVAC Inspection Cost by Location
Nationwide, a homeowner can expect to pay between $250 and $450 for an HVAC inspection. However, the cost can vary depending on where you live. Areas with higher costs of living, such as New York City or San Francisco, will likely have higher inspection costs due to the cost of labor. On the other hand, small towns and rural areas may have lower inspection costs.
FAQ
No, it’s best to contact a professional, certified HVAC technician for an inspection. The technician will be able to properly diagnose any issues and take the necessary steps to repair or replace the system.
An HVAC inspection is a comprehensive check of the system’s components and operation. The technician will visually inspect all parts, measure airflow and efficiency, and check for gas or oil leaks.
They will also measure the temperature of all vents, inspect the condensate drain and ductwork for cracks or leaks, and test safety controls such as thermostats and limit switches. An inspection can help identify any problems and suggest repairs or replacements to make the system safe and efficient.
The lifespan of an average HVAC system is between 12 and 15 years. Regular HVAC tune-up and maintenance can help increase the system’s lifespan and keep it running efficiently.
An HVAC inspection typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the system’s complexity. The technician will typically provide a detailed report with any necessary recommendations for repairs or replacements.
Final Thoughts
An HVAC inspection is crucial for detecting any potential problems with your system on time and avoiding costly repairs or energy waste. When considering purchasing a new home, it is essential to have a certified expert inspect the HVAC system, as buying a new system is a major investment.
On average, an HVAC inspection costs between $250 and $450, which is relatively minor when compared to the expense of repairing or replacing a system that has not been regularly inspected. A proper inspection will provide peace of mind and help you save money in the long run. Be sure to hire a certified expert to inspect your HVAC system for the best results.
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Main Photo Credit: Southern Virginia Higher Education Center / Flickr / Public Domain Mark 1.0
