HVAC Calculator
Calculate equipment, ductwork, registers, and labor for HVAC installations. Enter your equipment cost, duct runs, and register counts to see a rough estimate.
Equipment
Your actual equipment cost
Ductwork
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your system type and enter the equipment cost
- Choose your duct material and enter the total run length
- Enter supply register and return grille counts
- Adjust the labor rate to match your market
The calculator shows equipment, materials, labor, and total before markup. Apply your own markup and overhead to get your selling price.
Typical Install Hours by System Type
| System | Install Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Split A/C | 14 | Condenser + evaporator coil + lineset |
| Heat Pump | 16 | Similar to split but with reversing valve |
| Furnace + A/C | 18 | Full system replacement |
| Mini-Split (per head) | 8 | Ductless, wall-mounted |
| Package Unit / RTU | 20 | Rooftop, may need crane |
FAQ
How long does a typical HVAC install take?
A standard residential furnace and A/C replacement takes 14-18 labor hours (1-2 days with a two-person crew). A full system with new ductwork can take 24-40 hours. Mini-splits are faster at 6-10 hours per head. Commercial RTU installs vary widely based on tonnage and rigging.
What's the difference between flex duct and sheet metal?
Flex duct is cheaper ($1.50-2.00/ft vs. $6-8/ft for sheet metal) and faster to install. Sheet metal is more durable, handles higher static pressure, and lasts longer. Most residential work uses flex for branch runs and sheet metal for trunk lines. Some jurisdictions and efficiency standards require sheet metal.
How do you estimate the number of supply registers?
A rough rule is one supply register per 150-250 sq ft of conditioned space, depending on climate, insulation, and window area. A 2,000 sq ft house typically needs 8-13 supply registers. A proper Manual J/D calculation gives exact numbers, but this works for rough estimating.
Should I include permit costs in my HVAC estimate?
Yes. HVAC permits typically run $100-500 depending on jurisdiction and scope. Include them as a line item so the client sees the full cost. Some areas also require a mechanical inspection fee.
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