Prices for make up air units vary by size, airflow capacity, and installation complexity. This article breaks down the typical cost with low, average, and high ranges, so buyers can budget accurately for a make up air system that ensures fresh air in commercial or multifamily buildings. The main cost driver is the unit size measured in CFM and the required ducting, plus labor and any controls integration.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Make Up Air Unit (NA4-ON, 500 CFM) | $2,800 | $4,200 | $6,000 | Compact direct- or belt-driven units |
| Make Up Air Unit (1000 CFM) | $4,000 | $6,000 | $9,000 | Mid-range efficiency, basic controls |
| Make Up Air Unit (1500-2000 CFM) | $6,500 | $9,500 | $14,000 | Higher efficiency, optional economizer |
| Installation Labor | $1,500 | $3,000 | $5,000 | Includes mounting, ductwork, wiring |
| Ductwork And Vents | $1,200 | $3,000 | $6,000 | Supply and exhaust runs |
| Controls & Sensors | $300 | $900 | $2,000 | Thermostat, inlets, differential pressure sensors |
| Permits and Inspections | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Depends on locality |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard residential/commercial buildout, access to roof or mechanical room, single-zone system.
Price Snapshot For Make Up Air Units By Size And Type
Prices vary with CFM capacity, motor type, and efficiency. 500-600 CFM units typically run $2,800-$4,200 before installation, while 1,000 CFM units trend $4,000-$6,000, and 1,500-2,000 CFM units commonly $6,500-$9,000 or more. Regions with higher labor rates or complex duct routes can push totals higher.
Main Cost Components In A Make Up Air System
The quote often splits into four to six key parts. Make up air unit cost by size is the largest element, followed by installation labor and ductwork. A compact unit may need fewer ducts, reducing material costs. Controls, sensors, and commissioning add value but raise price. Permits, delivery, and waste handling are smaller line items but can accumulate.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Make Up Air Unit (500-1000 CFM) | $2,800 | $4,000 | $6,000 | Direct- or belt-driven |
| Labor To Install | $1,500 | $3,000 | $5,000 | Mounting, wiring, commissioning |
| Ductwork & Venting | $1,200 | $3,000 | $6,000 | Supply and return paths |
| Controls & Sensors | $300 | $900 | $2,000 | EC/controls, dampers |
| Permits | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | varies by locality |
Assumptions: single-zone operation, standard ceiling or roof access, mid-range duct routing.
Region And Labor Impact On Make Up Air Unit Pricing
Prices shift by region due to labor rates and permitting. The West and Northeast typically show higher installer hourly rates than the Midwest or South. In urban settings, expect higher duct routing costs due to limited access. Labor time can span 6-16 hours for a straightforward retrofit and 20+ hours for complex retrofits with multi-branch ductwork.
System Type Differences Direct-Drive Versus Belt-Driven Units
Direct-drive units offer fewer moving parts and typically lower maintenance costs; belt-driven models can handle higher static pressure and longer runs but cost more upfront. For make up air, direct-drive often lands in the $2,800-$6,000 range for 500-1000 CFM, while belt-driven systems at 1000-2000 CFM can reach $7,000-$12,000 including installation.
Choosing a system type affects both initial price and long-term energy use. RTU-style economizers or variable-speed controls can add $1,000-$2,500 to the unit price but offer energy savings over time.
Per-Unit And Installation Totals For Typical Scenarios
For a 1000 CFM install in a light commercial space, the combined equipment and labor often fall in the $5,000-$9,000 band, excluding permits. A larger 1500-2000 CFM job can reach $9,000-$14,000 depending on duct complexity and sensor suite. The split between equipment and installation usually trends toward 40/60 or 50/50 in standard projects.
Access, Ductwork, And Venting Costs Increases
New installations with long duct runs, tight crawl spaces, or multiple floors raise both material and labor costs. For each additional 100 CFM beyond 1000 CFM, expect roughly $200-$400 in equipment, plus $300-$700 in labor and ducting. If bespoke dampers, sound attenuation, or exterior vents are required, add $500-$2,000 more.
High-rise or roof-mounted installs commonly incur crane fees or scaffold costs that push totals higher.
Maintenance, Service Life, And Replacement Cycles
Make up air units typically last 12-20 years with routine filter changes, belt checks (for belt-driven), and coil cleaning. Annual maintenance contracts may range from $150-$350 per year for basic service to $600-$1,000 for full preventive maintenance and sensor calibration. Replacement cycles can be 12-15 years for mid-range units, sooner for older equipment.
Proper sizing and seasonal tuning help keep long-term costs predictable. Energy-efficient models often have higher upfront prices but lower operating costs.
Ways To Cut Make Up Air Unit Costs
Scope control and informed material choices can trim totals. Consider opting for a smaller capacity unit if airflow permits, or selecting a unit with fewer sensors when appropriate. Bundling installation with other HVAC work can obtain volume discounts. Evaluate replacing only essential components vs full unit replacement, and compare quotes from multiple contractors to benchmark labor rates.
Planning ahead can reduce last-minute scheduling fees. Seasonal demand affects pricing, so booking in a low-demand window may save 5-15% on installation labor.