A single HVAC maintenance appointment typically costs between $100 and $350, while you may pay up to $500 annually for a service contract that includes multiple visits.
But there can be plenty of variation in price and structure. Top HVAC companies often offer multiple tiers of service, ranging from a basic economy package to premium plans.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
The biggest cost factors are system type and age, the size of your home, and the types of work included in the maintenance. Older systems or heaters that use oil fuel require additional work during a tuneup, increasing costs. Likewise, systems in larger homes often cost more to maintain due to the time it takes to assess their extensive ductwork.
But in most cases, giving your HVAC a little TLC is worth the cost. Routine maintenance keeps a system running reliably and efficiently, saving homeowners money over time by lowering energy bills and prolonging the system’s lifespan.
“I liken HVAC maintenance to when you get a tune-up done or an overall safety check on your car by an auto mechanic,” said Bill Taylor, HVAC contractor manager for South Jersey Industries based in Atlantic City, New Jersey. “HVAC technicians are generally just making sure the unit looks good.”
Key Takeaways
- The type of air conditioner or air conditioning system you have will play a major role in your maintenance costs.
- Depending on your system type, you might need to take on a series of maintenance tasks throughout the year to keep all your moving parts in order.
- Professional HVAC maintenance providers have experience ensuring that each part of your system is clean and have access to specialized tools that can address problems more effectively.
What Does HVAC Maintenance Include?
HVAC maintenance can encompass a wide range of tasks. Contact a company directly or check its website for a list of included services and pricing before signing a contract. An HVAC maintenance visit may include some of these common tasks:
- Turn on the system and test its heating and cooling cycles
- Lubricate all moving parts and test them for wear
- Test the heater’s combustion efficiency
- Inspect and tighten all electrical connections
- Change out air filters
- Clean soot from oil heaters
- Remove any obvious debris buildup
- Calibrate thermostats
- Measure airflow and read temperatures at vents
- Clean outdoor coils
- Inspect refrigerant lines and levels
- Examine indoor coils and coil fins
- Flush drain lines and clean the drain pan
- Clean burners
- Inspect ducts and fix loose seals
A thorough inspection of all parts of an HVAC system can ensure that it performs at peak efficiency and reduces the risk that it will break down when you need it most.
| Low End | Average Cost Range | High End |
| $100 | $200–$350 | $550 |
Cost data include the unit, labor, and demolition, if applicable. All cost data in this article were gathered from RS Means construction materials and labor database and bids from top contractors.
How Much Does HVAC Maintenance Cost by System Type?
What an HVAC technician checks for depends on the system type. It’s common for companies to charge differently for oil heat, gas heat and heat pumps. The chart below shows how maintenance for these systems differs in cost.
| Type of Air/HVAC Unit | Average Annual Maintenance Plan Cost |
| Air conditioning | $220 |
| Gas heat or heat pump | $220 |
| Oil heat | $290 |
| Heat and air conditioning | $390 |
“If it’s an oil heating system, they’re looking for combustion efficiency and burner efficiency, they’re looking for soot cleanup they can do, and they’re checking the smoke pipe,” Taylor explained. These tasks would not apply to a natural gas or propane heating system, where many of the components are simpler to keep clean.
In addition to cost differences by system type, HVAC companies may also offer tiered service plans that vary in price. For example, a company may charge $200 a year for a plan that includes just one annual visit and priority service.
Paying $400 per year may add a second annual visit, waive fees for diagnostics and emergency service, guarantee same-day service or include a credit for the cost of replacement parts. Benefits vary by company.
How Much Does HVAC Maintenance Cost by Project?
Depending on your system type, you might need to take on a series of maintenance tasks throughout the year to keep all your moving parts in order. The following table summarizes some of the most common maintenance tasks homeowners schedule for their HVAC systems and what they will likely cost.
| Maintenance Task | Average Cost |
| Coil maintenance and cleaning | $150–$300 |
| Drain line cleaning | $75–$200 |
| Filter cleaning | $2–$50 |
| Refrigerant replacement | $200–$450 |
| System energy efficiency audit | $100–$300 |
Which Factors Impact HVAC Maintenance Costs?
Several factors influence the total cost of HVAC maintenance and how frequently you should have your system serviced.
System Age
The age of your HVAC system affects how much you’ll pay for maintenance over time. New systems that get proper annual maintenance take relatively little time to inspect and tune up at each visit. Older systems, on the other hand, may demand up to 50% more labor hours and often need replacement parts to keep them functioning and running efficiently.
System Sophistication
High-end HVAC systems with advanced technology often demand higher maintenance costs due to the specialized knowledge required.
“Especially on the heating side, consider if you’re looking at variable speed motors or logic boards. That kind of equipment is more advanced and has complicated circuitry,” said Taylor. “If you have an older system that doesn’t communicate with five other pieces of equipment, it’s going to tend to be less pricey to fix.”
Home Size and Layout
In most cases, HVAC pros will charge a flat fee for maintenance service. This fee can vary and is sometimes calculated using your home’s square footage. This is because larger homes tend to have more extensive ductwork, increasing the labor time involved in maintenance.
Local Labor Rates
HVAC labor rates will vary based on where you live. Labor tends to cost more in densely populated areas where demand and cost of living are high. Technicians usually charge a flat fee of $100 to $350 for a single maintenance service visit. Occasionally, a pro will charge at an hourly rate of $50 to $150 per hour.
Service Plans Vs. One-Time Visits
The upfront cost for a one-time HVAC maintenance visit is lower than the monthly or annual fee for a service plan. However, some homeowners find that the added value of a service plan is worth the cost. Benefits vary by company and plan, but may include:
- Multiple annual maintenance visits
- Priority service over non-member customers
- Free or low-cost emergency service calls
- Discounts on replacement parts
On the other hand, consider that your existing HVAC warranty may already cover the cost of maintenance. You’ll also want to read any service contract carefully before signing, as certain major parts aren’t always covered.
To avoid costly repairs, look for signs that your HVAC system needs service. These include spikes in your electric bill, unusual smells or noises from your vents or unit, water pooling around your unit, uneven heating or cooling, or the motor not functioning.
How To Save Money on HVAC Maintenance
You’ll save the most on HVAC maintenance over time by keeping a regular maintenance schedule. Change out air filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, typically every three months, and get a professional tune-up annually. Other cost-saving tips include:
- Schedule maintenance during the fall or spring before the start of the heating or cooling season
- Ask your HVAC service provider about discounts for long-term service contracts
- Adhere to your system’s warranty so you can get reimbursed as needed
- If you have a home warranty plan, see if it covers an HVAC tune-up
- Install a smart thermostat that monitors your system’s energy usage so you can catch issues early
How Often Do I Need HVAC Maintenance?
Most HVAC pros recommend a maintenance visit every one to two years for air conditioning units and heaters that use natural gas or propane fuel. If your home has oil heat, annual maintenance is preferred. Some companies offer comprehensive maintenance plans that may include multiple visits each year. These plans are charged monthly or annually and cost more than one-off maintenance, but they often include priority service and other features to add value.
A maintenance visit is key to detecting problems early. A minor problem that goes without service long enough can eventually cause a major breakdown that costs much more to fix.
Plus, if you wait until your system has problems and needs service, you could end up waiting around while your home gets uncomfortably warm or dangerously cold.
How often you need service depends on the type of system you have.
“If you’re using an oil furnace or boiler for heating, have the unit maintained once a year. For natural gas or propane heaters, every two years is probably enough,” suggested Taylor. “I would say the same if you have a separate air conditioner: Every year or two years.”
More frequent seasonal maintenance is not necessary unless your system’s manufacturer warranty requires it. You’ll also want more frequent service if you notice any of the following signs:
- Banging, clanking or other unusual sounds from your ducts
- Higher-than-normal energy bills
- Poor airflow in certain rooms
- Foul odors coming from your vents
How To Evaluate an HVAC Maintenance Provider
To choose the right HVAC service provider, compare reviews, complaints, and responses for local companies. Once you’ve found a few well-rated options, ask each for the following:
- Typical pricing for a tune-up
- What’s included in a standard tune-up
- Whether they offer maintenance plans
- Proof of certification in your local area
- Proof of insurance
- Where they’re located
- How many years of experience they have
You may find some of this information on the company’s website.
“Look for someone who’s been in business at least a year, preferably more,” said Taylor. He also emphasizes the importance of working with local providers.
“I’m comparing what they offer and how close they are to you. I’d rather deal with somebody local because in the worst conditions when you need someone most, you’re going to get a faster response,” Taylor explained. “That’s the biggest value. When I need it most, who’s going to be here?”
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Red Flags To Watch for When Hiring an HVAC Maintenance Provider
Aside from negative reviews, the following red flags should turn you off from hiring a given HVAC company.
Unrealistically Low Prices
Be cautious if a company offers a maintenance rate well outside the normal range of $100 to $350 for a standard tune-up. Heavily discounted rates tend to result in poor-quality work or upselling of unneeded services. Compare prices across multiple service providers and choose the best realistic rate.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
A reputable HVAC technician will complete the agreed-upon maintenance and suggest repairs or replacements as needed. Be wary of technicians who try to push immediate repairs without a clear explanation of the problem. They may simply be trying to upsell you. Don’t rush into any expensive repairs and get opinions from a few other companies before making your decision.
No Written Estimate
Always get a detailed, itemized estimate in writing before making any payments or allowing work to begin. Verbal quotes and handshake agreements are unreliable and may land you with hidden fees after the work is complete. You should also be wary of companies that ask for payment upfront, as maintenance is a low-cost service that doesn’t warrant a deposit.
Unverified Licensing and Insurance
Depending on where you live, your state or local jurisdiction may require HVAC professionals to hold a license and carry liability insurance. You can ask for proof of both and a reputable pro will not hesitate to provide it. Industry certifications such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence) and EPA Section 608 may also be required in some areas, so ask for these as well.
Poor Communication
Your chosen technician should be easy to reach by phone or email and respond in a reasonable amount of time. They should also communicate professionally, politely and plainly.
Be wary of technicians who use confusing jargon or who avoid answering basic questions when asked. Choose a provider who takes the time to explain each task in simple terms. You should be able to understand why you need the service you’re paying for.
A Lack of Service Guarantees
A reputable HVAC technician should be willing to stand behind the quality of their work. Ask technicians if they offer warranties or service guarantees.
Companies Without a Physical Address
Companies with limited contact information or that lack a local address will prove difficult to get a hold of if you have a dispute or complaint about the service you receive. Always choose an established business in your local community with a track record of positive reviews. Referrals from trusted friends and family members can help ensure a company is legitimate.
So, Is HVAC Maintenance Worth the Cost?
Routine HVAC maintenance is a small investment in the short term that will save you money in the long term. Seasonal or annual tune-ups can reveal small issues and help avoid them becoming costly major repairs.
“While no level of service can prevent all sudden breakdowns, having regular documented maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and the inconvenience of being without heat or AC when you need it most,” said Joe Severson, General Manager of Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning in Greater Houston, Texas.
The cost of maintenance ultimately depends on the type and size of your system, but you should compare service providers and the various maintenance services and plans they offer to find the best fit for your needs at the right price.
Get quotes from trusted local HVAC professionals in your area today.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Maintenance
It’s ideal to seek HVAC service once every six months, but most homeowners limit their routine services to one annual maintenance visit.
HVAC maintenance involves various cleaning and efficiency-testing tasks that vary based on your system type. Your HVAC contractor may replace or clean your system’s air filter, clean your compressor and evaporator coil to prevent dirt buildup, and test electrical connections to ensure you aren’t overpaying on energy bills. If you have an HVAC service contract, maintenance visits will be laid out in your plan’s details.
HVAC preventative maintenance is worth it, especially if you’re a homeowner living in an older property. Over time, dirt and debris can settle on the components of your HVAC system, including your fan motor, compressor coils, and ductwork. Removing this dirt and debris helps your HVAC system run more efficiently, saving money on energy costs.
Annual maintenance extends the lifespan of your air conditioning system, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. AC maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, which can be a major household expense. The average AC system breakdown can cost between $100 to $600 per appointment. Preventative maintenance keeps your system running smoothly, leading to fewer component replacements.
