Evaporative Cooler Installation Estimate - Fair? ?

Question

Hello - Wanted some opinions about a quote to install a 4500 downdraft evaporative cooler onto existing duct work. I was given $1600 inclusive of the unit and all labor, including a 1 year warranty on the labor and unit.

I know this is higher than buying a unit directly from a home improvement warehouse, but this is a higher quality unit. Basically, I'm wanting to know if this estimate is totally out of the ballpark or is at least fair.

Thanks!!!

Answer 1

A high end evaporative cooler is $569 (Mastercool).  The roof mounting kit is $25 to 30.  Copper tubing is maximum of $15.  They have to put it on the roof, install the roof mounting kit, connect it to the existing duct and level it.  Then connect the existing electrical wiring to it and connect new copper tubing, turn on the water and they are done.  Installation is maximum of two hours, probably less.  I would definitely say that is high.

Answer 2

The answer depends where you live and if the quote is from a licensed contractor or a handyman.  For a contractor in  the California Bay Area (very high wages) and a good cooler that is about the right price.  For a handyman in an area where wages are lower it is probably high.  The access to your roof could also effect the price.