What's Normal?

Example result

This is a sample assessment of a furnace and AC replacement quote, so you can see exactly what you get.

Your result

Heating & cooling · Sample HVAC contractor

62score

Significantly higher than typical

Quote to replace a residential gas furnace and central air conditioner, including installation, materials, a permit and an extended warranty.

Total quoted / charged
$17,850
Estimated typical range
$11,500–$15,000
Confidencemedium

The quote gives equipment and labour totals, but does not identify the exact equipment model, efficiency rating, or the full scope of ductwork involved.

Factors considered: Typical residential furnace and A/C replacement pricing for this scope of work, assessed against industry norms and the details provided in the document.

Location considered: Suburban metro area (provided by user)

Why we scored it this way

  • The equipment cost appears reasonable for a mid-efficiency furnace and A/C pairing.
  • The labour component is substantially higher than typical for the scope shown in this document.
  • The quote includes a premium extended warranty that is bundled rather than priced separately.
  • The permit cost appears reasonable.
  • Several line items do not include enough detail to assess confidently.

Itemized analysis

What I'd ask before paying

  1. 1Can you provide a breakdown of the $4,800 installation charge — hours, crew size and rate?
  2. 2What exact make, model and efficiency rating is the equipment being installed?
  3. 3Is the $1,100 extended warranty optional, and what does it add beyond the manufacturer warranty?
  4. 4Are permits and post-installation inspection both included in the quoted price?
  5. 5Does the price include removal and disposal of the old equipment?
  6. 6Is any duct modification or electrical upgrade included in this scope?

What would make this more accurate

  • • Equipment make, model and efficiency rating
  • • Whether ductwork or electrical changes are part of the scope
  • • Your city or region, which materially affects labour rates

This is a pricing estimate based on the information provided. It is not professional financial, legal, medical, insurance or contractor advice.

Turn this into a report

Pro turns any check into a multi-page PDF you can hand to a client, a landlord or an insurer — your name and company on the letterhead.

See Pro

Ask for the detail, in writing

Written from your result. Polite, specific, and hard to brush off — send it before you pay.

Hello,

Thank you for the quote of $17,850. Before I approve it, I'd like a bit more detail so I can compare it properly.

Could you please confirm the following in writing?
• A line-by-line breakdown separating labour from parts or materials.
• The hourly rate or flat-rate basis used, and the hours assumed.
• The specific make, model or grade of the parts and materials included.
• What is included in the scope, and what would count as extra.
• Whether permits, disposal, and cleanup are in this figure.
• The warranty on parts and on the workmanship, in writing.

I also had these specific questions:
• Can you provide a breakdown of the $4,800 installation charge — hours, crew size and rate?
• What exact make, model and efficiency rating is the equipment being installed?
• Is the $1,100 extended warranty optional, and what does it add beyond the manufacturer warranty?
• Are permits and post-installation inspection both included in the quoted price?

I'm not looking to haggle — I just want to understand what I'm paying for and be able to compare like with like. Happy to move ahead once I have this.

Thank you,
Open in email

Get a second opinion

A ready-to-share post for Reddit, Facebook, a group chat or anywhere you want a second opinion.

Is $17,850 normal for this heating & cooling? Here's what I found out.

Quote to replace a residential gas furnace and central air conditioner, including installation, materials, a permit and an extended warranty.
Location: Suburban metro area (provided by user)

Quoted: $17,850
Estimated typical range: $11,500–$15,000
Assessment: Significantly higher than typical

What stood out:
• The equipment cost appears reasonable for a mid-efficiency furnace and A/C pairing.
• The labour component is substantially higher than typical for the scope shown in this document.
• The quote includes a premium extended warranty that is bundled rather than priced separately.
• The permit cost appears reasonable.
• Several line items do not include enough detail to assess confidently.

Line items worth questioning:
• Installation labour — $4,800
• Materials & supplies — $1,400
• Extended warranty — $1,100

What I'm going to ask before I approve it:
• Can you provide a breakdown of the $4,800 installation charge — hours, crew size and rate?
• What exact make, model and efficiency rating is the equipment being installed?
• Is the $1,100 extended warranty optional, and what does it add beyond the manufacturer warranty?
• Are permits and post-installation inspection both included in the quoted price?

Has anyone here paid something similar recently? Curious whether this tracks in your area.

Get a second price before you commit

A second quote is the single most reliable way to know whether this one is fair. Add another quote and see them side by side, line by line.

Compare quotes

Know someone who should check a bill?

Share your result. The share card never includes your name, address, account numbers or any personal details.

Now check your own

Upload a photo or PDF. Your first two checks are free.

Check a bill or quote