Two quotes thousands of dollars apart can come out close once you line up what each one includes.
What to look for
- Line set. New or reused, how long, and the route it takes. The larger, insulated pipe is the suction line and the small one is the liquid line. A reused set should be the right size for the new unit and pass a pressure test.
- Electrical. Circuit, breaker, disconnect and whip for the outdoor unit. If your panel is full, the panel work should be priced on its own line.
- Ductwork. The plenum, transitions and any returns or runs being replaced, each by name. "Ductwork as needed" doesn't tell you what you're paying for.
- Venting and condensate. PVC venting for a high-efficiency furnace (usually two pipes), the condensate drain or pump, and a chimney liner if the water heater ends up alone in the chimney.
- Permit and inspection. The installer pulls the permit, and the inspection is included.
- Removal. Hauling away the old equipment and recovering its refrigerant.
Allowances and exclusions
An allowance is fine if it has a cap and you approve anything over it in writing first. An exclusion is fine if it says what work is left out and who does it. Anything vaguer tends to turn into a change order.
Comparing two quotes
Where one lists something the other doesn't, get that item priced before you compare totals. Then check where each total lands, or send both quotes and we'll price the same work.
Common questions
Is a lower quote missing something?
Not always. A simpler house or a lower equipment tier costs less. Compare the line set, electrical, ducts, venting, permit and removal first.