got new HVAC -- $5K did I get ripped off

[mjb4]

my other system was LOUD and sometimes leaked. Everything was replaced and the thermo was changed to a timer. Recently it went hot (freon). I decided to get it replaced. the install was incorrect and now I have a 3ft hole in my ceiling. installers are responding, but I am missing work...I hate making big purchases, was this purchase reasonable...

[eyesroll]

1. $5K isn't out of bounds...

Depends what you're doing -- my parents are replacing their furnace and AC and, although I don't have a total, it's costing $3K for the AC alone.

[SoCalDem]

2. We paid about $3500.00 in 1996

ahd to replace furnace, compressor unit and some ductwork, so yours sounds about right..:) Enjoy the cool :):)

When it comes to being comfortable, it costs whatever it costs..and it's worth it :)

[searchingforlight]

3. That sounds in the ballpark to me.

[RobertSeattle]

4. What was the name of the company?

Bush Brother's "Keep Kool" Service?
Cheney "Hearbeat" Heating Company?
Tom Delay Extermination and Heating, Inc?

[On the Road]

5. $5,000 is Normal for Finding a Company in the Yellow Pages

but if you want to save money next time, try putting up bulletins in a working-class neighborhood. (Chruches and schools are good.) Say you're looking for an experienced HVAC person to do side work. I guarantee labor will be 50% less, and you will also be more likely to get cheaper equipment materials. You just have to dole out the money gradually and don't the contrator incentive to quit in the middle of the job.

I bought a rental house in January with radiators and a broken furnace. I spent $5,000 to get the furnace and radiators removed, install ductwork throughout the house, and install a new gas furnace, central air conditioner, and hot water heater. Materials were extra, but were a lot cheaper than Home Depot. I probably could have bargained the labor down to $3,000.

Seriously, skilled handymen save so much over a contractor from the Yellow Pages. You just have to go to the right part of town to find them.

[htuttle]

6. Ya got that right!

You can't even take your tools out of the toolbox nowdays without filling out a 27B/6 form with Central Services!

Just put a light in your window, and I'll be over.

-- Harry