Example: Heat Pump Quote With Heavy Electrical Work

The Original Quote (Simplified)

• 3-ton heat pump (15.2 SEER2)
• New air handler
• New 60A breaker + wiring run
• Replace outdoor disconnect
• Replace whip and conduit
• Install new service disconnect at indoor unit
• Upgrade panel bus bars
• Remove old equipment
• 10-year parts / 1-year labor
• Price: $14,600 installed

The Big Picture

This is a standard mid-efficiency heat pump install paired with significant electrical updates. Most of the added cost comes from panel work, new breakers, and running new wiring. This type of quote is common in older homes or when the new system draws more power than the old one.

What's Included

• Heat pump + air handler: Solid mid-efficiency equipment suitable for most climates.
• 60A breaker upgrade: Required when the new system has higher electrical demand.
• New wiring run: Ensures safe current handling from the panel to the outdoor unit.
• Outdoor disconnect replaced: Standard safety requirement for service access.
• Whip + conduit: Protects electrical wiring from weather and mechanical damage.
• Service disconnect for indoor unit: Good practice for working safely on the air handler.
• Panel bus bar upgrade: Helps older panels handle modern load requirements.
• Removal of old equipment: Full disposal included.

What's Missing or Unclear

• Permit details: Not listed, and electrical upgrades usually require inspection.
• Line set condition: Not mentioned — reuse, flush, or replace is unclear.
• Ductwork assumptions: No airflow measurements or return size mentioned.
• Running length of wiring: Could affect final cost if long distances are involved.

Comfort & Efficiency Notes

The equipment here is mid-efficiency, but electrical improvements don't affect comfort directly — they're about safety and reliability. Installers typically upgrade breakers and wiring when the system draws more power than the existing circuit can handle.

Price Insight

At $14,600, this falls into the mid-to-upper range for a 3-ton system. Much of the added cost comes from electrical labor, panel upgrades, and new wiring — not from the HVAC equipment itself.

Red Flags to Consider

• Permit not mentioned despite electrical scope.
• Line set details missing completely.
• No airflow or duct measurements listed.
• Wiring run length could change final cost if underestimated.

Questions You Can Ask

• "Is the electrical permit included in this price?"
• "How long is the wiring run you're estimating?"
• "Will the line set be reused, flushed, or replaced?"
• "Was my duct airflow checked for compatibility?"
• "Is the panel upgrade mandatory or precautionary?"

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