HVAC Inspection Cost in Canada

Has it been some time since you have had your HVAC system looked at and cared for? Well, before making a call and hiring someone to have your HVAC system checked, you definitely want to know about the pricing. This post will tell you all the necessary information regarding HVAC inspection costs.

Average Cost of HVAC Inspection in Ontario

Based on prices provided by homegnome, homeguide, and other sources, here is how much it costs to inspect an HVAC system in Ontario:

1. Cost for Residential HVAC Inspection

If you are not sure what HVAC is, you can go to our article titled What is HVAC and then continue with this one.

2. Commercial HVAC Inspection Costs

3. Seasonal vs. Annual HVAC Checkups

To find out about all the various steps in the process of inspection, make sure to check out What is HVAC Inspection.

Factors That Affect HVAC Inspection Pricing

There are several factors that can make an inspection cheaper or more expensive:

• Type of Inspection: A basic inspection (testing a single unit like the AC or furnace) is always cheaper than a comprehensive inspection (testing the entire HVAC system). Also, if there is a need for specialized tools and a specific inspection, such as ductwork leakage tests or refrigerant analysis, the cost will be higher.
  
  
• Type and Size of the HVAC System: Bigger homes or buildings and commercial buildings usually have multiple HVAC units; that means more time and labor are needed to assess them. Advanced HVAC systems also typically require more time and expertise to investigate.
  
  
• Age and Condition of the Systems: If the HVAC systems are old, they might take more time to examine, and their parts might be harder to find. If the systems haven’t been maintained regularly, inspectors might need to spend more time assessing any wear and tear and potential damage.
  
  
• Accessibility: If some of the components of the HVAC system are located in tight or difficult-to-reach places, this can potentially increase labor time and consequently costs.
  
  
• Location and Travel Fees: If your house or property is located in big cities such as Toronto & GTA, the prices are usually 10-20% higher than in rural, less populated areas. However, in rural areas, you might face extra costs due to travel fees.
  
  
• Popular & Certified Companies: Companies that are well established in the field and have certain qualifications, certifications, and experience usually charge you extra compared to independent and more local inspectors.
  
  
• Seasonal Demand: Typically, it is the case that in spring and fall, there is more demand for AC and furnace inspections, and prices are higher. Sometimes, you can find discounts during the less busy seasons. Something to note is that emergency inspections often cost more as well.
  
  
• Bundles Cost Less: You can opt for bundles provided by companies to reduce the costs. Bundles usually include both inspections and maintenance, or even repairs.
  
  
• Add-On Services: If you want additional services handled by inspectors, services such as thermostat calibration, duct inspection, safety inspection, efficiency testing, etc., they are going to ask for more money. It’s worth mentioning that detailed reports and documents for insurance purposes, etc., also cost extra.

If interested in the topic of inspections, Home Inspection Terminology tells you the meaning of every single word that is used in the field.

FAQs

1. Is the inspection fee refundable if I proceed with repairs?

Depends on the inspector or company you are working with. Some companies waive or credit the inspection fee toward repair costs if you decide that the same company that did your inspection does the repairs. However, some companies consider the inspection to be a completely different service and will charge for it separately.

2. Are there any government rebates for HVAC inspections in Ontario?

No. Government rebates in Ontario typically apply to energy-efficient HVAC upgrades or installations, not routine inspections.

3. How often should HVAC systems be inspected?

Most professionals in the field recommend HVAC inspections to be undertaken twice a year, once in the spring (AC inspection) and once in the fall (heating inspection).

4. Can I inspect the HVAC system myself?

Yes, but only the most basic inspections and undertakings, such as changing air filters, cleaning around outdoor units, and ensuring that vents are clear.

5. How Much Does It Cost to Check the AC Unit Separately?

You can expect to pay around $70 to $200 to have only the AC unit examined.

Yearly Home Inspection is another read we recommend for those who want to make certain their house is always in good shape.

On a Final Note

It is important to have your HVAC system checked once or twice a year. This way, the different components will not run into any major issues, and you won’t have to pay a fortune to have things replaced or repaired. You can do basic inspections yourself, but if you’re thinking of comprehensive inspections, definitely consider professional help. Before calling an HVAC inspection company, make sure to check out all the HVAC inspection cost numbers we have provided in this article and negotiate the price accordingly.