How Much Does an HVAC Inspection Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $70 - $500
The cost of an HVAC inspection is $300 on average, but can cost between $70 and $500 or more depending on the size of your home, type of HVAC system, and location of your HVAC unit in your home.
The average HVAC inspection cost is $300, though homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $70 and $500 per inspection.
A HVAC inspection can take up to one hour, which is time well spent to ensure the system is running smoothly, prevent major and costly repairs, and extend its lifespan.
- Average
- $300
- Low end
- $70
- high end
- $700
HVAC Inspection Cost Factors
When determining the cost of your home HVAC inspection, several factors come into play. Here are the most common things that will impact the cost of your HVAC inspection.
Home and HVAC System Size
Larger homes are often equipped with multi-zone HVAC systems or multiple units to heat and cool rooms effectively and efficiently. The more systems and units in place, the more there is for the inspector to examine, which will increase the cost. To cut down on price, consider hiring an HVAC contractor who offers a flat rate rather than an hourly fee, as large-scale inspections will take a long time to complete.
Type of HVAC System
More complex HVAC systems with more components result in higher inspection costs than basic units with fewer elements. Furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners with multiple running parts to inspect will incur a higher cost compared to air ducts, vents, and attic fans.
Location of HVAC Unit
If your HVAC unit is located in a tight, hard-to-access space, such as a crawlspace or attic, this will also contribute to your HVAC inspection cost. HVAC systems that are difficult to reach and work around are often more time-consuming than units sitting in an open room or large basement. They may also need specialized equipment to conduct a thorough inspection.
Season
The time of year can also affect how much a home HVAC inspection will cost. Much of this comes down to a contractor’s availability. For instance, cold winters often result in many emergency call-outs for broken furnaces, while hot summers lead to an influx of faulty air-conditioner repairs. If you book an HVAC inspection during a contractor’s busy period, you may have to shell out a little extra.
Try to reserve an HVAC inspection during the slower spring and fall seasons to take advantage of lower rates. This can also decrease your risk of HVAC problems when you need them the most in winter and summer.
Labor
One price fits all does not apply when it comes to HVAC contractors. Depending on the level of inspection you need—whether it’s a complete HVAC inspection before purchasing a home, a seasonal inspection, or a separate inspection of your furnace, boiler, ductwork, or air-conditioner—you’ll find HVAC contractors charge different rates that vary by job.
Some contractors charge flat rates for routine inspections, while others charge by the hour. Most HVAC technicians charge from $75 to $150 per hour.
Geography
Where your house is located also plays a role in HVAC inspection costs. If you live in a region prone to extreme heat or cold temperatures and find you need to run your HVAC units 24/7, you may need more than one annual HVAC inspection to make sure your system is optimal. Homes that run their HVAC systems less frequently will likely need one complete HVAC inspection each year.
Travel
If you live in a rural area far from a city or town, an HVAC contractor might charge for expenses such as gas mileage and travel time. However, not all contractors charge travel fees. Instead, they may only charge clients who live outside their service area. Generally, HVAC inspectors charge travel costs of $25 to $50, depending on how far they need to travel. To save on costs, consider looking for an HVAC company located near you.
Cost by HVAC Inspection Type
A typical HVAC inspection includes a comprehensive check of components like thermostats, coolant levels, electrical systems, evaporator coils, pressure checks, and an examination of the system's overall safety and efficiency.
A full HVAC inspection costs $300 on average but can range from $150 to $500. Depending on the size of the HVAC system, it usually takes at least an hour for a contractor to conduct an inspection, after which time they’ll recommend repairs if needed.
However, if you suspect a problem with one HVAC component, a less expensive inspection of an individual system may be all you need. Here are a few examples of the most common individual HVAC systems and their inspection costs:
| System Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Furnace | $80 – $100 |
| Air Conditioner | $75 – $150 |
| Boiler | $100 – $300 |
| Air Ducts | $80 – $180 |
Furnace
Since your furnace is responsible for keeping your home warm, it’s important to make sure it’s working properly and safely. Most HVAC contractors will follow a furnace inspection checklist including a look at your furnace’s filters, fans, and burners to see if any repairs are needed. Keep in mind that gas furnaces have more parts to check than electric furnaces and will require additional time and service.
Air Conditioner
Regular inspections of your air conditioner are recommended to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable throughout the hot summer months. One of the leading issues of air conditioners not working properly is low refrigerant, which a contractor checks during an inspection. A typical air conditioner inspection does not include cleaning or repairs.
Boiler
During a boiler inspection, the contractor checks its fuel levels and ventilation and examines it for any possible leaks. Most boilers are made from steel that, although strong, can crack with time, so if you have an old boiler, a thorough inspection is vital. There are many types of boilers such as gas-, coal-, and oil-fueled boilers that require different levels of service.
Air Ducts
Duct inspections ensure you and your family can breathe easy as clean and properly functioning air ducts keep indoor air free of excess dust and particles. Air duct inspections include a check of your ducts to determine if any cleaning is required.
Another type of air duct inspection is an air duct leakage test, which usually requires extra equipment, such as air pressure monitors and a calibrated fan to measure air flow rate, and time. According to most experts, leaky air ducts can reduce an HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 40%, so if you notice your HVAC performance is less than ideal, this kind of inspection is worth considering. Duct leakage tests are generally more costly, ranging from $250 to $400.
How to Save Money on an HVAC Inspection
Think of an HVAC inspection as an ounce of prevention to reduce the risk of costly HVAC repairs and replacements in the long run. While most HVAC companies set their standard inspection rates, there are some money-saving measures to help find prices that fit your budget.
Shop around and ask for quotes before you book an appointment.
Schedule off-season inspections when HVAC company demands are at their lowest.
Practice regular DIY maintenance to reduce the risk of expensive HVAC repairs.
Focus on your most-used units by having them inspected individually as needed.
DIY Inspection vs. Hiring a Pro
When it comes to HVAC inspections, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Certified HVAC contractors have the technical know-how and equipment needed to properly inspect the most complex HVAC systems. It’s also important to note that by going the DIY route, you stand a chance of voiding your HVAC system’s warranty, which could lead to high HVAC replacement costs if needed.
However, it doesn’t hurt to keep an eye on your HVAC system and look for these common warning signs that may let you know that professional attention is needed:
Poor air quality
Strange odors and unusual sounds
Inaccurate thermostat readings
Uneven airflow
High or increased energy bills
There are many things you can do yourself to maximize the upkeep of your HVAC system which include:
Changing your furnace and air-conditioning filters
Cleaning dust from your floor and ceiling vents
Keeping furnace and air-conditioner areas free of dirt and debris
Frequently Asked Questions
Experts suggest your HVAC system should be inspected once per year. If you’re buying a new home, it’s also a good idea to have the house’s HVAC system professionally checked before the final sale. For HVAC systems older than 10 years, it’s recommended they are inspected twice per year. If you suspect a problem, you should schedule an inspection, even if you’ve already had one this year.
Home HVAC inspection costs vary widely from state to state. These different cost factors are typically due to geographic locations and cost of living. States with a lower cost of living are likely to have lower inspection costs compared with high-cost-of-living states.
Do a little background research on a few certified HVAC companies before choosing the best one for your job. Look for things like how long the company has been in business, and check their online customer reviews. Double-check to see if they offer service in your area.
When choosing an inspector, also ask to see a sample inspection report. A professional inspection report should detail all the areas and components of an HVAC system, provide findings, and include any recommendations for repairs. Finally, find a contractor you’ll feel comfortable with who can address any questions or concerns you may have after the inspection.