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What to look for on an HVAC quote
HVAC quotes vary dramatically in quality. Two quotes for the "same" system can differ by $3,000–$6,000 based on SEER rating, Manual J load calc, ductwork modifications, and refrigerant type — details that often get buried. A good analyzer quote line-items all of this.
Central AC + furnace, heat pump, mini-split. Tonnage (2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 5) should be justified by Manual J load calculation, not square footage alone.
Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, etc. Exact model number lets you verify SEER, AFUE, and warranty registration.
Minimum 14 SEER (15 SEER2) required by 2023+ DOE rules. Higher efficiency (18-20 SEER2) costs more upfront but qualifies for tax credits.
80% AFUE = standard; 96% AFUE = high-efficiency condensing furnace. High-efficiency qualifies for rebates in cold climates.
R-410A being phased out under EPA AIM Act. New installs from 2025+ should use R-454B or R-32. Reject R-22 outright — it's been banned since 2020.
Required by IRC M1401.3 in most states. A contractor who sizes by square footage alone is guessing — often oversizing by 30–50%.
Return and supply duct additions, sealing, replacement. Leaky ducts waste 20–30% of system output.
Float switch on secondary drain pan should be included on attic installs.
Smart thermostat (ecobee, Nest) should be itemized if included, not bundled vaguely.
Old equipment removal should be included with itemized refrigerant reclaim.
Local permit + Manual D (duct sizing) + Manual S (equipment selection) if code requires.
Parts (5–10 yrs registered), compressor (10–12 yrs), labor (usually 1–2 yrs; 10-yr available on premium).
Red flags in an HVAC quote
Bigger isn't better. An oversized AC cycles on/off rapidly, fails to dehumidify, and wears out faster. If a contractor quotes 4 tons for a 2,000 sq ft home without Manual J, they're padding.
R-22 has been banned in new installs since 2020. Any quote with R-22 means used or gray-market equipment. R-410A is acceptable today but phasing out — new installs in 2026+ should use R-454B.
Sizing by square footage alone is how contractors over-sell tonnage. Required by code in most states; ask to see the calculation.
Ducts 15+ years old or with visible damage waste 20–30% of output. A legitimate quote inspects and prices repairs or replacements separately.
Parts are often covered 10 years by manufacturer. Labor to install them usually only 1–2 years. Getting a 10-year labor warranty is a real perk; a 1-year labor warranty on a $10,000 install isn't.
Most Carrier/Trane/Lennox warranties require registration within 60–90 days. If the installer doesn't handle it, your warranty drops from 10 years to 5.
The federal 25C heat-pump credit expired Dec 31, 2025, but state and utility rebates ($200–$8,000 via IRA HEAR + DSIRE programs) and the 25D geothermal credit (30%, no cap, through 2034) are still active. If your contractor doesn't list applicable rebates, ask before signing.
Common hidden costs and change orders
These items are often missing from the initial HVAC quote and show up later as change orders or surprise fees. Ask about each before signing.
- Pad replacement / new slab for outdoor unit ($150–$500)
- Electrical disconnect or new breaker ($200–$800)
- New line set if existing is undersized or damaged ($400–$1,200)
- Refrigerant charge beyond factory ($100–$400)
- Duct modifications to match new equipment ($500–$3,000)
- Gas line upsize for high-efficiency furnace ($300–$800)
- Condensate pump on basement installs ($200–$500)