If you’ve been shopping for a new heating & air conditioning system or looking to repair your current unit(s), you’ve probably noticed higher price tags than in past years. In 2025, tariffs and supply chain pressures have reshaped costs for equipment and parts, leaving many homeowners wondering why prices are climbing and what they can do about it.
What’s Driving the Increases?
1. Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum
Steel and aluminum are the backbone of HVAC manufacturing. Recent U.S. tariff increases on imported metals have driven costs upward for manufacturers, and those costs are passed down to homeowners. For more information about the tarrifs on steel and alluminum, see this SMACNA article.
2. Import Tariffs on HVAC Components
Key HVAC parts like compressors, circuit boards, and other electronics (many of which are sourced from overseas) are subject to higher tariffs, particularly those from China. Check out this article from the NEWS that dives more into these tariffs.
3. Surcharges from Manufacturers
Brands including Lennox and Carrier introduced tariff surcharges to offset rising costs. Even when surcharges ease, overall equipment prices remain higher than they were just a few years ago. Here's an article from ACR Latino America about manufacturer price increases.
4. Limited Relief Under USMCA
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement provides some tariff relief on HVAC products manufactured in Mexico, but the scope is narrow and not all equipment qualifies. For more information about how to avoid the price jump from GNH HVAC's blog!
How This Impacts Homeowners
- Higher Equipment Costs: Average HVAC systems are now 20–40% more expensive compared to pre-2021 pricing.
- Increased Repair Costs: Even minor repairs requiring imported parts can carry higher costs.
- Longer Lead Times: Supply chain challenges mean parts can take longer to arrive, delaying repairs.
- Sticker Shock on Replacement: Homeowners with aging systems are facing much higher-than-expected quotes.
What Homeowners Can Do
✅ Act Now Rather Than Later – Waiting often means paying more as costs continue to rise.
✅ Get a Free Second Opinion – Contractors like Art of Comfort offer free second opinions on major repairs and replacements, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses.
✅ Request Transparent Quotes – Ask your contractor to break down costs, including any surcharge or tariff impact.
✅ Explore Financing Options – Spread the investment out and protect your budget from future increases.
Conclusion
Tariffs and material costs are out of homeowners’ control—but timing and decision-making are not. By partnering with a Diamond Certified contractor who is transparent and repair-focused, you can make the best decision for your home, your comfort, and your wallet.
Your Comfort, Our Craft.
