Sample Advisor Scorecard & Analysis
Here is an authentic review conducted for a residential 4-ton heat pump replacement quote. Notice how we dissect markup, omitted scope, and equip the homeowner with negotiation leverage.
Single Quote Analysis Report #HQA-101
Complete Heat Pump & Air Handler Replacement
Contractor: Apex Comfort Climate Pros | Location: 42 Willow Brook Way, Saratoga Springs, NY
6.8 /10
Overall Value Score
Pricing Fairness
5.5 / 10
High markup detected
Equipment Quality
8.5 / 10
Carrier Infinity (Top Tier)
Scope Completeness
6 / 10
Missing airflow calculations
Installer Terms
7 / 10
Short 1-yr labor warranty
Advisor's Verdict:
Dave Vance 32 years in HVAC contracting, engineering, and master mechanical advising
The Carrier Infinity system specified is top-tier equipment, but the quote carries an approximate $2,800 to $3,400 markup over regional market fair value for Saratoga County. Furthermore, the quote omits crucial Manual J load calculations, lacks mention of ductwork static pressure testing, and bundles standard electrical disconnects as an extra line-item charge.
Line-by-Line Mechanical Breakdown
Component / Service | Advisor Assessment | Advisor Findings |
Good Value | $7,200 | Excellent, quiet unit with superior low-ambient heating capability down to -5°F. | Carrier Infinity 25VNA4 4-Ton Variable-Speed Heat Pump High-efficiency variable-capacity inverter outdoor heat pump (up to 24 SEER2). |
Acceptable | $3,100 | Proper match with outdoor unit. Verify 10kW strip heater amp capacity with home electrical panel. | Carrier FE4A Variable Speed Communicating Air Handler |
Acceptable | $2,950 | Permit fees are included ($175 local). Two-man crew for 1.5 days. | Installation labor & municipal mechanical permit Turnkey removal of existing system, recovery of old refrigerant, disposal, and installation. |
Bloated Markup |$650 | Overpriced by ~$350. Disconnect box costs $25 wholesale; labor takes 20 mins during outdoor unit tie-in. | Electrical disconnect and surge protector package Dedicated exterior disconnect box, whip, and compressor surge module. |
Scope Omission | Critical omission. If 4-ton airflow (1600 CFM) is forced through 3-ton ductwork, premature blower failure and noisy registers will occur. | Manual J Load & Duct Static Pressure Test Engineering calculation to verify sizing and existing duct CFM delivery. |
Direct Contractor Talking Points
1.
Ask for the formal Manual J load calculation report before signing. The 4-ton unit quoted may be oversized for a 2,200 sq.ft well-insulated home, which causes short-cycling and humidity issues.
2.
Inquire why electrical whip and disconnect are listed as a separate $650 charge when industry standard includes connection to existing exterior subpanel.
3.
Request clarification on refrigerant line set: are they flushing the existing R-410A lines or running new lines for the new A2L low-GWP refrigerant requirements?
4.
Ask for a price match or revised price of $12,200 – $12,600, which aligns with prevailing regional distributor costs and standard 35-40% gross margins.
Recommended Negotiation Targets
Original Contractor Quote:
$14,850
Advisor Target Revision:
$12,400
Estimated Homeowner Savings:
Save ~$2,450
Average turnaround time is 24 hours. Confidential & 100% unbiased.
Important Consumer Disclosure
HVAC Quote Advisors is an unbiased advisory and analytical consulting service. We do NOT sell equipment, dispatch technicians, or perform installations or repairs. We work exclusively for you—the homeowner.