Commercial HVAC maintenance costs vary, but Harold Brothers notes that a well structured PM plan is almost always far less expensive than emergency repairs or system failure.
| Building or System Size | Typical Annual PM Cost* |
|---|---|
| Small building or light commercial HVAC load | $2,000 to $10,000 per year |
| Medium building with multiple systems or VRF/BAS | $10,000 to $75,000 per year |
| Large facility or multi building portfolio | $75,000 to $200,000 per year |
*Actual pricing varies based on equipment type, number of units, age and condition of the systems, and how often Harold Brothers services the building.
System size and complexity. Harold Brothers sees higher costs as buildings add more units, zones, or rooftop systems.
Maintenance frequency. Quarterly or monthly plans offer better protection but increase annual cost.
Age and condition. Older equipment often needs deeper cleaning and more diagnostics.
Scope of services. Basic inspections cost less than full performance testing and detailed reporting.
Access and location. Hard to reach mechanical rooms or rooftops impact labor time.
Harold Brothers finds that buildings with consistent preventative maintenance see lower energy use, fewer emergency calls, and longer equipment life. A small yearly investment often prevents major failures that can cost tens of thousands. Clean coils, proper airflow, and correct refrigerant levels keep systems running efficiently and reliably throughout the Massachusetts heating and cooling seasons.
In Harold Brothers’ experience, a well designed PM plan usually saves more than it costs by:
Reducing emergency repair calls
Lowering energy use through cleaner, more efficient equipment
Extending the life of expensive HVAC assets
For many Massachusetts buildings, that means a contract in the $2,000 to $200,000 range is a strategic investment rather than just another line item.