A basic inspection for a single HVAC unit usually runs between $250 and $450. The cost of your HVAC inspection changes based on your system’s size and age, plus where you live.
For bigger homes with complex systems like hybrid HVACs with both heat pumps and furnaces, costs can reach $550 or higher, especially if you need extra services like video checks. Basic systems or newer AC units might only need a $100 inspection.
The HVAC tech spends one to two hours checking all key parts, like air filters, coils, and condensate drain. They also test how well your system works, check for safety issues, provide maintenance advice, and recommend repairs or adjustments if need be.
HVAC Inspection Cost by Location
Depending on where you live, the cost of an HVAC inspection can vary a bit. The highest costs are often found in areas with high living costs and intense weather conditions, such as New York. Meanwhile, cities like Pawtucket may have lower average prices due to milder climates.
Other factors that can influence costs include local regulations and building codes, which may require more detailed inspections.
Additionally, the availability of HVAC technicians in your area can impact prices. In rural or less populated areas, fewer technicians might mean higher costs due to travel fees and limited competition.
Below is a table breaking down general HVAC inspection costs based on location.
| Northeast U.S. | Averge Cost |
| New York, NY | $450 to $650 |
| Pawtucket, RI | $350 to $450 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $350 to $550 |
| Atlanta, GA | $300 to $400 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Chicago, IL | $400 to $500 |
| South Bend, IN | $300 to $500 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Seattle, WA | $350 to $600 |
| Corvallis, OR | $300 to $450 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Roswell, NM | $350 to $500 |
| San Diego, CA | $320 to $500 |
To get a clear idea of the cost in your area, your best bet would be to contact local HVAC companies through Home Gnome.
HVAC Inspection Costs by Unit Type
Inspection costs can change based on the type of HVAC unit you have. For example, a heat pump system may need a more detailed check than a regular AC unit. Similarly, gas furnaces call for an inspection of extra parts like heat exchangers and fuel lines.
If your HVAC setup has more than one unit or if the tech needs to look at hard-to-find parts (like ducts running through narrow crawl spaces or units installed in tight attic corners), the examination fee might go up.
Plus, some homes have extra HVAC equipment like attic fans and radiant flooring. These parts usually need separate inspections that come at additional costs.
Here is a look at the cost of a basic HVAC inspection for different types of systems:
| Unit Type | Average Cost | Key Services |
| Air Conditioner | $100 to $150 | Thermostat test, coil exam, refrigerant check, electrical inspection |
| Furnace | $75 to $150 | Burner inspection, filter check, CO leak detection, vent system review |
| Boiler | $100 to $250 | Leak inspection, pressure valve check, combustion test, water/fuel level check |
| Heat Pump | $100 to $250 | Refrigerant check, electrical test, component inspection, thermostat calibration |
| Air Ducts | $80 to $150 | Pressure test, video inspection, contaminant check, cleaning assessment |
| Roof Vent | $80 to $150 | Visual inspection, airflow check, debris removal |
| Attic Fan | $75 to $100 | Motor inspection, blade check, electrical test |
| Radiant Flooring | $100 to $125 | Leak detection, thermostat calibration, system flush |
Labor Costs
HVAC technicians charge by the hour, usually between $60 and $150. If they find any issues during the check, labor charges will increase because of the extra hours needed to fix those problems.
Also, HVAC companies may charge higher rates for operations outside their regular working hours (like weekends or late evenings).
Travel Fees
Travel fees are extra charges that HVAC professionals add to cover their transportation costs. These fees often depend on how far they drive to reach your place.
In general, you can expect a travel fee between $25 and $50 for each trip. Keep this in mind when searching for an HVAC company for your inspection needs – sometimes, close is better than cheap.
HVAC Inspection for Homebuyers
If you’re considering buying a house, it’s important to have the HVAC system inspected before signing any papers. This helps uncover the system’s overall health and the potential need for repairs or replacements.
Even if the sellers offer an HVAC report, it’s recommended to get your own assessment for complete trustworthiness. For these comprehensive inspections done prior to purchasing a house, anticipate costs of up to $550.
Emergency HVAC Service
There may come a time when you need an immediate HVAC inspection. This could be for a new house you plan to buy, or maybe your old system abruptly stopped working.
Emergency HVAC services usually cost more, commonly ranging between $160 and $250 due to the quick turnaround time. Prices can shoot up if the technician has to work after hours or during weekends.
FAQ About HVAC Inspection Cost
The cost of repairing your HVAC system can vary significantly depending on the type of repair required. Minor HVAC 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 maintenance services cost about $85 to $170, depending on the type of system you have in your home and its size.
Remember, you can perform some of the basic preventive maintenance tasks on your own to keep your heating and cooling system in tip-top shape between inspections.
Find an HVAC Technician Near You
An HVAC inspection detects any potential problems with your system and avoids costly repairs or energy waste. When considering purchasing a new home, you should have a certified expert inspect the HVAC system, as buying a new system is a major investment.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled handymen and handywomen in seconds and leave the rest to us.
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