When you plan for a new HVAC system, you probably think about the price of the unit itself. That’s a big part of the budget, but it’s not the whole picture. Other expenses come with an installation, and if you’re not prepared for them, they can catch you off guard. Understanding these hidden HVAC expenses can help you plan better and avoid surprises when it’s time to replace or upgrade your system.
System Cost
The HVAC unit itself is the biggest expense, but the price changes based on the type of system and your home’s needs. A small home might only need one ductless unit, while a larger house may require a full central system or boiler. Here are the average installed costs in Massachusetts:
- Central air conditioner: $4,500 to $8,500 installed
- Ductless mini-split: $3,000 to $7,000 per zone installed
- Heat pump: $5,000 to $12,000 installed
- Furnace: $3,500 to $7,500 installed
- Boiler: $5,500 to $11,000 installed
- Packaged HVAC unit: $7,500 to $12,500 installed
- Geothermal system: $18,000 to $30,000 installed
Installation & Labor Costs
When you look beyond the system itself, labor and installation are the next big part of the bill for HVAC installation in Massachusetts. This covers skilled technicians, including the removal of old equipment, setup, testing, and cleanup.
On average, installation labor costs run between $2,000 and $4,500 in Massachusetts for a central AC or standard HVAC setup. Hourly labor rates usually range from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on the system’s complexity and the home’s layout.
HVAC Permit Costs
In Massachusetts, you need a permit to install a new HVAC system. This isn’t usually included in the price of the unit, so it’s an extra cost to plan for.
Most towns charge a fee based on the job’s cost, plus a small base fee. On average, permit fees are about $11–$15 for every $1,000 of the project price. For example, if your HVAC installation costs $8,000, you can expect the permit to be around $95 to $120.
Typical permit costs:
- $5,000 project: about $75 to $90
- $8,000 project: about $95 to $120
- $12,000 project: about $150 to $200
If the company files the permits for you, they might add a small charge for handling the paperwork and inspections. A simple way to plan ahead is to set aside 1 to 2 percent of your total HVAC budget for permits.
Ductwork Installation
If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork or if the old ducts need to be replaced, it adds another expense to your HVAC installation. In Massachusetts, this can be a big job, especially in older homes or houses with tight spaces.
On average, installing new ductwork costs $4,500 to $11,000. If you’re adding it to a new HVAC system, it usually adds about $2,000 to $5,000 on top of the system and labor costs. Quick cost guide for ductwork:
- New full duct system: $4,500 to $11,000
- Added to system price: $2,000 to $5,000
The final price depends on your home’s size, layout, and how easy it is to access the areas where the ducts will go. Using insulated ducts is also important in Massachusetts and can increase the cost a bit.
Trust GEM Plumbing for HVAC Installation
Installing a new HVAC system is a big investment, and GEM Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical helps you plan for every step, including the hidden costs. Our licensed, background-checked team provides upfront pricing, same-day service, and free estimates on replacements so there are no surprises. With 24-hour emergency availability and decades of experience serving Massachusetts homes, we ensure your installation is done right the first time.
Call GEM Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical today to schedule your HVAC installation in Massachusetts and get a free estimate.
