How Much Does an HVAC Technician Charge Per Hour in the USA?
US HVAC technicians charge $90-$175/hr for standard service work in 2026 – with after-hours emergency calls typically $175-$300/hr. Service calls (dispatch + first diagnostic hour) are typically $75-$175 on top of hourly rates.
HVAC Service Rates by Type (2026)
| Service | Typical price |
|---|---|
| AC service call + diagnostic | $75-$175 |
| AC refrigerant recharge (per lb) | $100-$175/lb (R-410A), $300-$500+/lb (R-22) |
| Furnace tune-up | $80-$150 |
| AC tune-up/maintenance | $75-$150 |
| New system installation (3-ton central AC) | $3,500-$7,500 |
| New system installation (5-ton central AC) | $5,000-$10,000 |
| Mini-split installation (single zone) | $3,000-$7,000 |
| Duct cleaning | $300-$700 |
Maintenance Contracts: Recurring Revenue
The highest-margin HVAC revenue model is annual maintenance contracts:
– $150-$300/year per system (residential)
– $500-$2,000/year per system (commercial)
– Includes 2 seasonal tune-ups, priority service, parts discounts
Maintenance contracts provide predictable revenue, fill quiet periods, and generate equipment replacement leads when systems approach end-of-life.
FAQs
Why is R-22 refrigerant so expensive?
R-22 was phased out under the Montreal Protocol – EPA banned new R-22 production and import from 2020. Only reclaimed R-22 is available, creating significant price increases. Customers with R-22 systems should understand that their equipment is approaching end-of-life on cost grounds alone.
Should I charge a diagnostic fee separate from the service call?
Yes – the service call fee covers dispatch. A separate diagnostic fee ($50-$100) is charged when diagnosis requires significant testing time beyond the initial inspection. Be clear about this in your pricing upfront.
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