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. A local HVAC pro can give you an accurate estimate.
The average HVAC inspection cost is $300, though homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $70 and $700 per inspection.
An 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.
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.
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.
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. However, if you suspect a problem with just one part of your HVAC system, you might not need a complete HVAC inspection.
System Type | Description | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Furnace | Includes an inspection of the filters, fans, and burners | $80–$100 |
Air conditioner | Checks filters, coils, vents, and refrigerant levels | $75–$150 |
Boiler | Assesses fuel levels and ventilation; tests for leaks | $100–$300 |
Air ducts | Looks for dirt and blockages; may include a leakage test to measure air flow rate | $80–$180 |
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.
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.
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. Depending on the size of the HVAC system, it takes at least an hour for a contractor to conduct an inspection, after which time they’ll recommend repairs if needed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
HVACs are one of the most complicated and essential systems in our homes. To avoid further damage or safety risks, always hire a certified HVAC specialist to repair or replace broken parts.
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
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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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 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. HVAC inspection costs can also vary within a state. If a technician has to travel a long distance to reach your home, you can expect to pay more for your inspection.
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.
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.