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Make-up air unit cost varies widely with unit size, install complexity, and local labor. Buyers typically pay $1,200-$12,000 for a complete make-up air system; major drivers are CFM capacity, heat option, and ventilation routing.

What a Typical Make-Up Air Unit Installation Costs

A standard installed make-up air (MUA) unit for a small commercial kitchen or large home garage runs $1,800-$6,000 on average for 1,000-3,000 CFM with basic heating. Average installed price for a heated 2,000 CFM MUA is about $4,200 including ducts and a single contractor crew.

Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard galvanized ducts, single rooftop curb, normal access.

Labor, Materials, Equipment, and Permits Found on Quotes

Typical quotes separate cost into material, labor, equipment rental, permits, and disposal; each line can vary 20%-50% by region. Expect labor and materials to make up roughly 60%-80% of the total installed price.

How CFM, Heat Type, and Efficiency Ratings Drive the Final Price

CFM is the primary variable: 500-1,500 CFM units cost $500-$1,800; 1,500-4,000 CFM cost $1,200-$6,000; 4,000+ CFM moves into $6,000-$12,000 and custom pricing. Adding gas heat typically increases unit cost by $700-$2,500; electric heat adds $500-$2,000 and higher operating cost.

Efficiency and controls: economizers, variable-speed drives, and EC motors add $300-$2,000 depending on features and control integration.

Practical Ways To Reduce Make-Up Air Unit Price

Scope control and timing reduce cost more reliably than negotiating a single contractor. Opting for a fan-only MUA without heating saves $700-$3,000 up front if on-site heating or return-air strategies suffice.

• Bundle HVAC and MUA work with the same contractor to avoid double mobilization fees.
• Prepare the site: pre-cut roof curb openings or remove old equipment to lower labor hours.
• Choose standard duct sizes and galvanized material instead of custom stainless for lower cost.

How Prices Differ Across Regions and Climate Zones

Labor and permit costs change regional pricing: urban Northeast and West Coast can be 10%-30% higher than Midwest; rural areas may be 5%-15% lower but sometimes have higher travel fees. Expect a regional premium of about +20% in major metros versus the national average for similar specs.

Common Add-Ons, Prep Work, and Hidden Fees That Increase Quotes

Contractors often list optional items that can double small-project costs: curb adapters, fire damper integration, roof flashing, and electrical branch circuits. Electrical hookup for a heated MUA often adds $500-$1,500; gas piping adds $300-$1,200 depending on run length.

• Long duct runs or complex routing: add $8-$20 per linear ft.
• Fire/ smoke dampers and code upgrades: $150-$500 each plus labor.
• After-hours or emergency installs: 1.5× to 2× normal labor rates.

Three Real-World Quote Examples With Specs and Pricing

Example quotes help set expectations for similar installs. Each example lists unit spec, labor hours, per-unit pricing, and total.