How Much Does a New Commercial HVAC System Cost in South Florida?

Operating a commercial facility means you’re constantly balancing costs against your space’s growing needs. So it’s no surprise that you’re looking for answers to “How much does a new commercial HVAC system cost in South Florida?”

The truth is there’s no quick-and-easy answer regarding the overall price for a new commercial HVAC system here in the Sunshine State. But as South Florida’s leading commercial HVAC service provider for 18+ years we’re more than happy to break down the various cost factors.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Commercial HVAC System in South Florida?

The factors that affect the cost of a commercial HVAC system in South Florida include:

Brand
Type of commercial HVAC unit
HVAC installation and labor costs
Size of your commercial building
Type of activity/business
SEER rating

Let’s take an in-depth look at these factors and how much impact they each have on the overall cost.

Brand

When it comes to commercial HVAC systems there are many long-standing high-quality brands to choose from. At All Pro Mechanical we specialize in installing and servicing these brands:

AAON
Carrier
Daikin
Liebert
Lennox
Trane
York

Which brand(s) are best suited to your facility will depend on the other factors in this list. As part of your estimate we’ll explain every viable option plus the pros and cons of each.

Type of Commercial HVAC Unit

There are also many types of commercial HVAC units. Maybe you have a hotel or residential space that needs packaged units. Or perhaps you’re running a large manufacturing facility with a rooftop unit.

Details like this play a huge role in the overall cost of your new commercial HVAC system. This is why our estimates start with a thorough assessment of your commercial space.

HVAC Installation and Labor Costs

In South Florida, HVAC installation and labor costs can vary quite a bit depending on the scope of the project. Historic buildings, for example, often require more labor due to less-than-ideal layouts or architectural features.

Or if you have a rooftop unit we may need to hire and secure permits for a crane and all the related safety requirements.

The more difficult or involved the installation process is, the higher your HVAC labor and installation costs will be.

Commercial Building Size

You can’t decide on a new commercial HVAC system without considering the size of your building. It’s not as simple as picking the biggest unit you can afford and hoping for the best.

If your commercial HVAC unit is too big, it’ll cycle too fast. Basically, the unit will start and stop before every inch of your space is at the right temperature. The short cycles will also seriously reduce the lifespan of the unit.

If your commercial HVAC unit is too small, it’ll run around the clock trying to achieve your set temperature. You’ll immediately find yourself dealing with exorbitant utility bills and a burnt-out AC unit.

The size of your building is one of the most influential factors in the cost of a new commercial HVAC system.

Type of Activity or Business

Your building’s occupancy, insulation, and activity are major factors in terms of the price you’ll pay for a new system.

Modern insulation materials retain temperatures better so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work quite as hard. Older insulation, on the other hand, will require your system to put out more BTUs.

In terms of occupancy, think about how different the needs are for a small office building versus a busy restaurant versus a large residential high-rise. These types of occupancy all factor into the type of HVAC system your building needs—and the overall cost.

Even if there aren’t often people in your building, its use must be considered. Server rooms, for example, require highly specialized equipment and controls.

Controls and Automation

Controls and automation for your commercial HVAC system are true game changers. No matter what size your facility is, you or your on-site manager can remotely view usage data and adjust settings.

You can even use this data to identify areas for improving HVAC efficiency and to give you maintenance reminders.

The more sophisticated you want these options to be, the more you can expect to spend.

SEER Rating

Your HVAC system’s SEER rating (short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) indicates its overall cooling efficiency. A higher SEER rating means more energy efficiency and saving more on your energy bills.

You’ll almost always pay more upfront for a commercial HVAC system with a high SEER rating but you’ll also see an immediate reduction in utility costs.

What is the Price Range for Small, Medium, and Large Commercial HVAC Systems?

The very loose approximate price range for small, medium, and large commercial HVAC systems are:

Small – $5000 – $10000 (1000 – 2500 sq ft facility)
Medium – $10000 – $15000 (2500 – 3500 sq ft facility)
Large – $15000 and up (3500 sq ft facility or more)

As we explained above, it’s just not possible to calculate a price for your new commercial HVAC system based on size alone. For example, a pharmaceutical business will have a highly complex HVAC system even if their facility is fairly small.

At the same time, a large commercial facility with more basic needs won’t necessarily face staggering costs simply because they need a larger unit.

Lastly, these price ranges are only for the unit itself—labor, installation, and other services like ductwork installation aren’t factored into these amounts.

How Does the Need for Custom Ductwork Influence the Overall HVAC System Cost?

Custom ductwork can meaningfully increase the overall cost of your new commercial HVAC system. It all depends on the total linear feet of ductwork needed and its specific purpose.

But keep in mind that custom ductwork can also save you money in the long run. The great thing about going this route is that your ducts will be virtually flawless—no leaks or gaps for air to escape.

When the airflow is better secured in this way, you’ll enjoy increased energy efficiency across your entire system. And that means lower utility bills all year round!

Ready to Learn More About a New Commercial HVAC System for Your Facility?

Honestly, we’d love it if there were some perfect formula to answer the question of “How much does a new commercial HVAC system cost in South Florida?” But right now, the best way to get a clear answer is by speaking with our commercial HVAC experts here at All Pro Mechanical.

We’ve been serving South Florida’s commercial HVAC needs for 18+ years—no one is more familiar with our intense tropical climate and the many challenges that come with it.

Just contact All Pro Mechanical today for all your commercial HVAC needs in South Florida, and to schedule a consultation.