How Much Does an HVAC Inspection Cost?

On average, an inspection for a single HVAC unit costs around $250 to $450.

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 TypeAverage Cost Key Services
Air Conditioner$100 to $150Thermostat test, coil exam, refrigerant check, electrical inspection
Furnace$75 to $150Burner inspection, filter check, CO leak detection, vent system review
Boiler$100 to $250Leak inspection, pressure valve check, combustion test, water/fuel level check
Heat Pump$100 to $250Refrigerant check, electrical test, component inspection, thermostat calibration
Air Ducts$80 to $150Pressure test, video inspection, contaminant check, cleaning assessment
Roof Vent$80 to $150Visual inspection, airflow check, debris removal
Attic Fan$75 to $100Motor inspection, blade check, electrical test
Radiant Flooring$100 to $125Leak detection, thermostat calibration, system flush

Labor Costs

Man Inspecting an Air Duct with a Flashlight. Older male with a yellow flashlight examining HVAC ducts in a large square vent. Male technician looking over the air ducts inside a home air intake vent.
Photo Credit: Serenethos / Adobe Stock

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

How much does HVAC repair 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.

How much do HVAC maintenance services cost?

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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Main Image Credit: ronstik / Adobe Stock Free / License

Luminita Toma

Luminita Toma is a detail-oriented writer and home improvement enthusiast. When she’s not writing or tackling DIY projects — much to the amusement of her family — she’s exploring new places or catching a movie with friends.