What should an HVAC replacement quote include?
The lines a complete quote carries, why each one matters, and what it costs you when one is missing.
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Check your HVAC quote before you sign
See what your AC, furnace or heat pump quote leaves out, what to ask your contractor, and how up to three quotes compare. Free, private, no account.
How it works
Three steps, about as long as reading the quote
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Add your quote
Paste the text, upload a PDF or photo, or type the details.
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Confirm what we read
Check the items, model numbers and prices we found. Nothing is guessed.
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See gaps and questions
Get a completeness score, flags and the questions to ask each contractor.
The 14 items
What a complete quote includes
Two quotes can differ by thousands of dollars because one leaves out work the other includes. The checker scores these 14 items.
- Load calculation (Manual J) or written sizing method
- Permit and inspection included
- Ductwork inspected, tested, sealed or modified as needed
- Start-up and commissioning (refrigerant charge, airflow check)
- Itemized pricing (equipment, labor, extras)
- Exact brands and model numbers listed
- Refrigerant line set replaced or flushed
- Electrical work (disconnect, breaker, wiring) addressed
- Contractor licence number shown
- Parts and labor warranty terms in writing
- Removal and disposal of old equipment
- Condensate drain and overflow safety switch
- Thermostat included or addressed
- Pad or mounting for the outdoor unit
Red flags
What the checker flags
Flags are prompts to ask questions, not accusations. Each one comes with the exact question to put to your contractor.
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High
No sizing method in the quote
Ask: How was the system size determined? Can I see the load calculation?
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High
Price given without a home visit
Ask: Will you visit my home before finalizing the price?
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High
Pressure to sign today
Ask: Can you hold this quote in writing for a few days?
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Medium
Large cash discount
Ask: What changes if I pay by card or check?
Guides
Latest guides
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How to compare HVAC quotes
Line quotes up by scope first, then by price, so you compare the same job and not three different ones.
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HVAC quote red flags
Sales pressure, missing permits, big deposits: what each warning sign means and what to ask.
Why QuoteLoupe
About QuoteLoupe
QuoteLoupe helps homeowners see what a contractor quote includes before they sign. It is built around one idea: compare what is in the quote before you compare the price.
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Private by design
Quote details are processed in your browser and are never sent to us.
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No guessed prices
We have no verified price data, so we show none.
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Sources and corrections
Facts carry a source and a date, and mistakes are corrected openly.
FAQ
Common questions
Is it free?
Yes. The checker is free to use, with no account and no sign-up. You can check as many quotes as you like.
Do you store my quote?
No. Quote text, photos and PDFs are read in your browser and are never sent to our server. Close or reload the page and everything you entered is gone. Read the privacy policy.
Does it tell me if the price is fair?
No. We have no verified local price data, and a made-up number would mislead you. The checker shows what the quote includes, what is missing and what to ask, so you can compare quotes on the same scope.
Which quotes does it work for?
Residential AC, furnace and heat pump replacement quotes in the United States, including split systems and ductless mini-splits. Repairs, commercial jobs and new construction are not covered yet.
Is this legal or tax advice?
No. QuoteLoupe gives general information only. For contracts, permits or tax credits, check with your state licensing board, your local building department or a qualified professional.
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