HVAC Prices Are Climbing Fast in 2025
Why Homeowners Should Act Now and Be Wary of "Too-Good-to-Be-True" Quotes
Why Are HVAC Prices So High in 2025?
Every major HVAC brand has raised prices — and not by a little:
- Carrier: Residential systems up 16%, commercial up 20% as of March 2025
- Trane: 20% increase on residential systems since February
- Daikin / Goodman: Increases of 18–20% across all product lines since April
- Lennox: 20%+ increase on new A2L refrigerant systems
- Goodman: Additional 17% hike on top of spring increases, plus parts up 14%
These are real, documented increases passed directly from manufacturers to distributors and contractors. And they’re not slowing down.
Other Key Cost Drivers
- Refrigerant Regulations: The EPA is phasing out R-410A refrigerant. New systems using A2L refrigerants (like R-454B) require major design and safety changes — adding 20–25% to equipment costs.
- Raw Material Inflation: Steel, copper, aluminum, and other critical components have risen 25–40%+ since 2020.
- Labor Costs: Skilled HVAC labor costs have climbed 15–20% over the last two years.
- Tariffs: As of April 2025, new federal tariffs on imported HVAC components are driving costs up 15–20% more — and will likely increase further.
What This Means in Real Dollars
A system that would have cost $16,000 just a year ago could now cost $20,000 to $24,000 — and possibly $26,000+ by late 2025. That’s a 25–50% increase, and prices are expected to climb again later this year as more regulations and supply-chain disruptions hit the industry.
Why the Cheapest Quote Might Be the Most Expensive Mistake
When faced with rising prices, it’s tempting to go with a much cheaper bid. But be cautious — there’s usually a reason one quote is thousands of dollars less. The question is: what’s missing?
Corners Often Cut by Budget Installers:
- Inexperienced Labor: Using unlicensed or apprentice installers with little training.
- Reused or Contaminated Line Sets: Connecting a new system to an old line set can introduce contaminants, causing compressor failure or warranty issues.
- Skipping Essential Install Items: No filter box, safety switches, or proper calibration.
- Using Inferior Equipment: Off-brand systems that lack warranty support.
- No Service or Warranty Support: No local team to support future needs.
Ask Yourself
If one company is $4,000–$6,000 cheaper:
- Are they using journeyman-certified labor?
- Are they installing new materials and safety protections?
- Will they answer your call when service is needed?
- Are you truly comparing apples to apples?
Poor installs can lose 20–40% efficiency, void warranties, or fail within just a few years. Saving upfront can cost you thousands more later.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Get a quality estimate from a licensed, trusted contractor
- Ask about refrigerant compliance, installation details, and warranty coverage
- Lock in today’s pricing before more increases hit this fall
- Look into financing options or available rebates to soften the impact
Final Word: Pay Once, Not Twice
The HVAC system you install today will run your home for 15–20 years. The difference between a good install and a bad one could mean:
- Lower energy bills
- Fewer breakdowns
- Better comfort and air quality
- True peace of mind
Don’t get burned by a lowball offer. Work with a team that values quality, integrity, and long-term performance. Invest once and never have to look back.