How Much Does A Commercial HVAC Unit Cost?

Commercial HVAC pricing is rarely one-size-fits-all. Cost shifts with building size, system type, brand, efficiency ratings, ventilation needs, and the realities of Los Angeles permitting and labor. Owners in Canoga Park, CA face a specific mix of hot summers, mild winters, and strict energy codes. This article breaks down what drives price, what a typical project costs in the Valley, and how to plan a budget that protects comfort and cash flow. It also shows where commercial HVAC services Los Angeles providers deliver the most value during design, installation, and upkeep.

What “Commercial HVAC” Means in Practice

In a typical Canoga Park strip center, a commercial HVAC system might be three or four packaged rooftop units feeding separate tenant spaces. For a two-story medical office, a variable refrigerant flow system with dedicated ventilation and air filtration might make more sense. For a production warehouse near Roscoe Boulevard, an industrial gas heater with make-up air and destratification fans may be the better fit. Each scenario changes equipment size, ductwork, controls, and installation staging. Pricing follows that complexity.

Price Ranges Owners Actually See in Canoga Park

For planning, it helps to work with bands, then refine once load calculations and site conditions are clear.

Small retail bay or professional suite, 1,000 to 3,000 square feet: A new 3 to 7.5 ton packaged rooftop unit often lands between $9,000 and $23,000 installed. The low end assumes a straightforward curb swap, short crane pick, and minimal duct changes. The higher end often includes curb adapters, new gas line flex, electrical disconnect, code upgrades, and smart thermostat.

Mid-size office or restaurant, 5,000 to 15,000 square feet: Expect $35,000 to $120,000 for multiple RTUs or a split-system bank. Kitchen makeup air, grease duct, ERV ventilation, and balancing can push costs. Restaurants in Canoga Park often sit closer to the top because of ventilation and grease hood interlocks.

Light industrial or multi-tenant building, 15,000 to 40,000 square feet: A bank of 15 to 30 ton rooftop units, or a heat-pump VRF with DOAS (Dedicated Outdoor Air System), usually ranges from $120,000 to $380,000 installed. Structural reinforcement on older roofs along Canoga Avenue can add to the budget.

Medical, data, or specialized use: Clean air, zoning, redundancy, and controls tighten the spec and widen the range. Projects can run from $250,000 to $900,000 depending on air changes, filtration, monitoring, and backup capacity.

These figures reflect typical Los Angeles labor, permitting, crane, and compliance costs as of this year. Commodity swings, brand choice, and lead times can nudge numbers by 10 to 20 percent.

Breaking Down the Cost Drivers

Capacity and load. Tonnage drives equipment cost. A 5 ton RTU might list between $3,500 and $6,000 before accessories; a 20 ton unit often lists between $12,000 and $22,000. Installed price multiplies because of rigging, electrical, controls, gas, condensate, seismic rails, and commissioning. Precise load calculations prevent overspending on capacity that never pays back.

System type. Packaged rooftop units are cost-effective for retail, office, and light industrial. Split systems help where roof access is limited or aesthetics matter. VRF systems excel in zoning and part-load efficiency but require trained techs and exact refrigerant management. DOAS and ERV add cost but can reduce cooling loads by delivering dry, fresh air more efficiently than mixed-air strategies.

Efficiency and code. California Title 24 sets minimum efficiency requirements. Higher IEER or heat pump options can trim operating cost and may earn utility rebates. Upfront, high-efficiency variants typically add 5 to 20 percent. With high occupancy or extended hours, the payback often runs three to seven years.

Controls and zoning. Modern controls help hold comfort and energy in check. A single programmable thermostat is cheap. A building automation system that manages schedules, demand limits, and ventilation ramps up-front cost but returns control across multiple suites. In multi-tenant buildings, the right control platform reduces after-hours calls and billing disputes.

Ventilation and filtration. LA projects include outdoor air per code, which can require powered ventilation, balancing, and dedicated ERV. Upgrading to MERV 13 filters raises fan energy and maintenance but satisfies many health guidelines. Owners should budget for that pressure drop with a slightly larger fan or variable-speed option.

Ductwork and diffusers. Reusing trunks can save money if static pressure stays within equipment limits. If the duct is undersized, leaking, or poorly balanced, plan on replacements or modifications. In occupied suites, ceiling work requires tight coordination with tenants to avoid interrupting business.

Electrical and gas. New breakers, wire runs, transformers, or gas piping can add a few thousand to tens of thousands, particularly in older buildings. Canoga Park has many 1970s and 1980s structures with panels near capacity; service upgrades can become part of the scope.

Roof and structure. Rooftop equipment needs curb adapters and seismic rails. Some older roofs require reinforcement when replacing a lighter, freon-era unit with a heavier, modern unit. If a re-roof is planned, schedule HVAC curb and rigging first to avoid rework.

Permitting and inspections. Los Angeles permitting fees vary by valuation. Expect plan check when scope touches structural, electrical, or gas. Seasonal timelines matter; summer backlogs can lengthen approvals. An experienced contractor helps keep submittals clean to avoid cycles.

Crane and logistics. Picks near Sherman Way and De Soto can require traffic control or Saturday work to avoid business disruption. Crane day costs typically range from $1,200 to $4,000 depending on tonnage and time. Complex picks add rigging crew and permits.

Commissioning and testing. A full start-up includes verification of charge, airflow, economizer function, CO2 control if installed, and balancing reports. Skipping this stage is a false economy; it protects the warranty and confirms design intent.

What a Realistic Line-Item Budget Looks Like

Owners often ask for a simple breakdown. On a typical 10 ton packaged rooftop replacement in Canoga Park:

• Equipment and accessories: 40 to 50 percent of the budget
• Labor, rigging, crane: 25 to 35 percent
• Controls, electrical, gas, condensate: 10 to 15 percent
• Ductwork and ventilation adjustments: 5 to 10 percent
• Permits, engineering, commissioning: 5 to 10 percent

VRF and DOAS projects shift more weight into labor, controls, and commissioning, with equipment comprising a smaller share of the overall budget.

Replacement vs. New Installation

Retrofits often cost more per ton than new construction because work must adapt to existing constraints and tenant schedules. Replacements need curb adapters, electrical modifications, and sometimes after-hours work. New construction spreads staging across an open site and reduces rework, so the cost per ton can drop. However, supply chain timing, sub trade coordination, and inspection scheduling still matter in Los Angeles.

The Canoga Park Factor: Local Conditions That Change Cost

Summer heat and long shoulder seasons push systems hard. Sizing for part-load performance matters more than chasing the largest nameplate. Many owners in the West Valley run extended hours; a high IEER unit or heat pump with inverter technology can save meaningful dollars on long run cycles.

Anecdote from the field: A small medical office near Owensmouth Avenue had two 5 ton units that short-cycled and left exam rooms humid. The owner replaced them with high-IEER models, added a small ERV for steady outdoor air, and upgraded controls so supply fans ramped instead of blasting. Installed cost rose by about 12 percent versus basic replacements, but summer electric bills dropped 18 percent the first year, and patient comfort complaints disappeared. The lesson is simple. Spending wisely on efficiency and ventilation can pay back fast in the Valley’s climate.

Brand Choices and Warranty Reality

Major brands cluster around similar price and performance tiers. The differences emerge in local parts availability, distributor support, and service training. In Los Angeles, parts access can make or break downtime. A brand with solid local inventory and clear warranty paths reduces cost over time. Standard warranties run five years on compressors and parts, one year on labor. Many owners add a labor warranty or maintenance plan to protect their investment. Those add cost upfront but reduce surprises.

Controls and Energy Management: Small Spend, Big Return

Even basic RTUs benefit from demand ventilation, supply air temperature reset, and smart scheduling. For multi-tenant buildings in Canoga Park, locking occupied hours and limiting setpoint drift stops those Saturday calls when a tenant forgets to turn off cooling. An entry-level building control package can cost $2,500 to $8,000 per site and save a meaningful slice of utility spend, especially during LADWP or SCE peak periods.

Rebates, Financing, and Tax Considerations

Utility rebates change regularly, but high-efficiency RTUs, VRF systems, and advanced controls often qualify. The book value matters as well. Some owners use Section 179 deductions for certain equipment, subject to limits and tax advice. Financing can make sense when the monthly utility savings offsets most of the payment. A clear cash flow model helps decision-making and keeps budgets honest.

Hidden Costs That Owners Miss

Roof warranty coordination. Some roof warranties require a certified roofer to flash new curbs. Budget $800 to $2,500 per curb to keep coverage intact.

After-hours installation. Tenants with daytime operations often push rooftop rigging and interior work to evenings or weekends. Labor premiums apply, but business continuity justifies the spend.

Structural or asbestos surprises. Older buildings sometimes contain asbestos in mastic or insulation. Proper abatement adds time and cost. Structural quirks, such as long joist spans or compromised decking, can trigger reinforcement.

Economizer integration. Economizers save energy in mild seasons, but they need sensors, actuators, and clean setpoints. Setting them correctly is as important as buying them.

How to Control Costs Without Crippling Performance

Right-size equipment with actual load calculations, not rules of thumb. Oversizing shortens equipment life and wastes money. Under-sizing invites hot calls and overtime service.

Match filtration to use. MERV 13 is a good baseline for many offices and clinics, but some spaces do fine with MERV 11. The jump in static pressure between ratings is real; plan fan power accordingly.

Keep ventilation separate from cooling where practical. A small DOAS unit that conditions outdoor air can let the main systems run at lower airflow while maintaining indoor air quality. This can reduce tonnage and improve comfort.

Invest in smart controls before gold-plating equipment. A mid-tier unit with good controls often beats a premium unit with basic thermostats on total cost of ownership.

Prioritize maintainability. Swing space for service, clear access to filters and belts, and labeled controls cut service time and reduce downtime. A tidy mechanical space saves money every year.

Maintenance: The Cost That Protects the Investment

Budgeting ends at installation only on paper. Real savings come from keeping the system clean, charged, and balanced. In Canoga Park, dust and heat mean coils load up and belts wear down. A quarterly maintenance plan is realistic for most commercial spaces. Typical yearly costs run from $400 to $1,200 per unit depending on size, filtration, and hours of operation. Coil cleaning, belt replacement, economizer checks, and filter changes preserve efficiency and catch issues before they turn into breakdowns.

A breakdown on a 15 ton rooftop during a July heat wave can cost far more in lost business and emergency labor than the price of a yearly plan. Service history also supports warranty claims. For owners planning to sell, documented maintenance can support valuation during due diligence.

What a Site Visit Reveals That a Phone Quote Cannot

A thorough contractor will check access, roof condition, existing curb size, gas and electrical capacity, condensate routing, duct size and leakage, return air paths, and code compliance. They will ask about hours, tenant mix, and comfort complaints. They will measure static pressure and supply temperatures if the system runs. Those details allow an accurate proposal with clear alternates. Without that groundwork, bids end up padded with contingencies or blow past budget after the first change order.

Timelines and Lead Times in Los Angeles

Standard RTUs can be available in days or weeks. Specialty units, heat pump variants, and VRF components may carry 6 to 12 week lead times. Plan backward from peak seasons. Many Canoga Park owners lock in summer work by placing orders in spring. Permits can take one to three weeks depending on scope and plan check. Sharing complete information early reduces re-submittals.

How Season Control Approaches Commercial Projects

Season Control Heating & Air Conditioning has installed and serviced hundreds of commercial systems across the San Fernando Valley. The team starts with load calculations and a site assessment. Proposals show at least one base option and one performance option. The goal is to balance upfront cost, energy use, and long-term serviceability.

During installation, crews coordinate crane picks, tenant schedules, and roof work to avoid delays. Commissioning includes airflow measurement, control sequences, economizer setup, and training for on-site staff. Post-install, the company offers maintenance plans that align with hours of operation and filter choices, not a one-size model.

For owners comparing commercial HVAC services Los Angeles wide, a local partner that knows Canoga Park roof access quirks, LADBS expectations, and summer load patterns saves time and frustration. That local experience shows up in fewer surprises and smoother handoffs.

Quick Comparison: Typical Systems and Installed Cost Ranges

• Packaged rooftop units, 3 to 20 tons: $9,000 to $120,000 per site depending on count, curb work, and controls
• Split systems, 5 to 25 tons total: $18,000 to $150,000 with line sets, air handlers, and code upgrades
• VRF heat pump with DOAS, 15 to 60 tons total: $120,000 to $450,000 depending on zoning, ceiling space, and ventilation scope
• Make-up air and exhaust for kitchens: $20,000 to $150,000 with hoods, interlocks, and balance
• Dedicated ERV/DOAS add-on to existing RTUs: $12,000 to $85,000 based on capacity and duct integration

These ranges narrow quickly after a field https://seasoncontrolhvac.com/service-area/commercial-hvac-services-los-angeles/ visit.

Signs It Is Time to Budget for Replacement

Frequent refrigerant leaks, rising energy bills, uneven comfort, and repeated compressor trips point to aging equipment. Most commercial units run 12 to 18 years in the Valley with good maintenance. If an RTU over 12 years old needs a major component like a compressor or heat exchanger, a replacement often pencils out better than another repair. For spaces with critical uptime, owners sometimes replace at year 10 to avoid summer risk.

How to Start Without Overcommitting

A feasibility visit is low friction. It should include a brief owner interview, equipment survey, return and supply measurements, and a check of electrical and gas. From there, a clear proposal can show a base code-compliant option and a higher-efficiency alternate with a simple payback calculation. Owners can decide quickly with solid numbers in hand.

Season Control offers on-site assessments in Canoga Park and nearby neighborhoods. The team handles permitting, crane coordination, and scheduling around tenants. For multi-suite buildings, they can phase work by bay to keep doors open.

The Bottom Line for Canoga Park Owners

A realistic budget starts with building type and size, then factors in system selection, ventilation, controls, and local code. Small suites often land under $25,000 per unit installed. Mid-size offices and restaurants often sit between $35,000 and $120,000 depending on count and ventilation. Larger or specialized buildings cross into six figures and beyond. Across all cases, smart design and proper commissioning protect comfort and utility costs.

If a project is coming up this season, or if existing units are showing their age, Season Control Heating & Air Conditioning can help scope options and keep the path clear. For a site visit in Canoga Park, CA and across the Valley, contact the team to schedule an assessment and receive a detailed, line-item proposal aligned with your goals.