Is this a reasonable bill for HVAC maintenance?

Question

I hired a contractor who was highly recommended by several people in my neighborhood to take a look at my central air because the second floor was not getting cool.

He was very thorough and spent 2 hours checking over the system and answering my questions.  He did the following:

-inspected ductwork and filter
-adjusted a damper on the first floor
-vacuumed out the furnace and cleaned the flame sensor
-checked the upstairs vents
-added 1/4lb freon
-sealed through wall penetration behind the condenser
-gave us some recommendations to keep pipes from freezing next winter

The bill was $390.  This is in a major metropolitan area, but I was shocked it was this high.  Does this sound typical?

Valleycat1 · Accepted Answer

HVAC technicians are a rare breed these days, and getting one who is recommended by others is even rarer.  I would guess the paperwork gives you the breakdown on the charges.  Most likely there is a travel/basic visit fee of up to $100, plus an hourly charge of $80 to $100/hour, plus the freon and some cost for the sealing work supplies.  It sounds like you had not had the system checked in awhile, so consider yourself lucky you are not buying a new system.  Did you ask about a reduced rate if you sign up for routine checks (probably twice a year, spring and fall)?

Droopy · Answer

I'd say that's what bout right with the time on site and freon interesting that he breaks the freon to 1/4lb most companies do it by the lb.  Plus the tools he used aren't cheap.

Spock (rhp) · Answer

yes.  75 or 100 dollars to show up, two hours labor at 100 an hour, plus materials [freon alone runs well over $100 the pound], plus you're paying for his expertise

? · Answer

Little high considering he used no parts, except a little freon. Almost 200 an hour. Most places charge 80 to 100 just to show up, then each hour after a little cheaper.

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Is this a reasonable bill for HVAC maintenance?

4 Answers