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Shocked by the prices quoted by their HVAC technician, a New Jersey homeowner [turned to Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/heatpumps/comments/1paqrsq/are_these_prices_reasonable_or_astronomical/) to ask for honest advice on whether the quotes were "reasonable or astronomical."

[The discussion](https://www.reddit.com/r/heatpumps/comments/1paqrsq/are_these_prices_reasonable_or_astronomical/) took place on the [r/heatpumps](https://www.reddit.com/r/heatpumps) subreddit. The homeowner mentioned that, in meetings with two reputable contractors, they had been quoted between $16,000 and $18,000 for a two-zone heat pump system, before any applicable tax credits or rebates.

"Is this price gouging or reasonable?" the original poster wrote. "Quotes include all labor, parts, permits, electrical upgrades.

Heating and cooling account for more than half of the energy use in an average American home, so HVAC upgrades can be among the most impactful home upgrades for your monthly utility bills. [Heat pumps](http://guide.thecooldown.com/actions/install-a-heat-pump), for example, may cost a little more upfront, but they are considerably better for the environment and [can reduce](https://www.thecooldown.com/green-home/heat-pumps/) your monthly heating costs.

But this post highlights a problem many people encounter when getting a new HVAC system: It's hard to know who to trust and whether your technician is acting in your best interest or theirs.

That's why The Cool Down has launched the [HVAC Explorer](https://links.thecooldown.com/hvac-explorer), a hub that helps you understand the options available to you, and connects you with partners that can help you save up to 50% on your energy bills, including some subscription options that require no money down.

In this case, Reddit commenters were split, with some saying the quoted prices seemed far too high and others saying it's just the cost of business for HVAC companies.

"Unfortunately, no, this is the new normal," one commenter who is an HVAC contractor [wrote](https://www.reddit.com/r/heatpumps/comments/1paqrsq/comment/nrl2o7t/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button). "All of our expenses have gone through the roof. Equipment, material, labor and overhead expenses (insurance) are ridiculous."