2 quotes. Is the first one raking me over coals or is the second cutting corners

Hello, hopefully someone can help shed light on these HVAC quote questions...

tl;dr 1st quote 14k, 2nd quote 2.2k, furnace = 7 years old. 1st recommends redoing all the duct, 2nd says certain small fixes are sufficient

I got 2 quotes on my system needing repair. IIRC both do not include a potentially necessary replacement of my inducer motor (due to a whistling sound when the heater is on in the basement).

A company came out to my home for a yearly check up of our system. Weirdly the first time their tech came up here he didn't mention some of these issues but that's fine.

Tech 1 - told me/showed me my static pressure was high, mostly because the return was too little for my supply (3 Ton furnace).

-Static pressure in basement >.1, return was undersized which was the biggest issue. Supply also needed some tweaking.

-The pipe that takes air out of the furnace (above the burners) is right over the burner, causing condensation, water dripping, and rusting, so it needs a cleaning.

-some other parts that I can reach and clean myself

The attic furnace is smaller and not as bad, but the return is still too little, and the overall static pressure was ~.07.

Here's the official quote from Tech 1:

Total Investment: $14,000 (Cash Discount Applied 3%)

1. System Diagnostics & Testing (Both Systems) - Estimated Value: $1,200 – $1,800

Static pressure testing (before & after), Airflow measurements, System performance verification, Final testing & commissioning

This is the “data + proof” portion that drives the entire solution.

 

2. Return Air Optimization (Both Systems) - Estimated Value: $3,000 – $4,500

Modify or add return ductwork, Remove airflow restrictions, Improve air draw back to equipment

This is typically the #1 restriction point in most homes.

 

3. Supply Air Optimization (Both Systems) - Estimated Value: $3,500 – $5,000

Resize/modify supply plenums, Fix undersized or kinked duct runs, Adjust dampers for proper distribution, Balance airflow room-to-room

This ensures air actually gets delivered properly after fixing return issues.

 

4. System Adjustments & Optimization - Estimated Value: $800 – $1,200

Blower speed adjustments, System calibration, Airflow balancing across zones

This is where we “fine tune” everything after mechanical fixes.

 

5. Duct Cleaning Service (Basement Only Unit) - Estimated Value: $800 – $1,200

Full duct cleaning (up to 15 vents)

Removes dust, debris, and contaminants, Improves airflow + indoor air quality

Helps protect the improvements you just made.

 

6. Labor (2 Systems – Multi-Day Project) - Estimated Value: $3,500 – $4,500

Duct modifications, sealing, rebuild work

Skilled HVAC technicians of for Multi-system coordination - Labor-heavy, custom airflow redesign job.

7. Materials & Fabrication - Estimated Value: $1,500 – $2,500

Sheet metal (plenums, transitions), Ductwork, fittings, dampers, Sealants, insulation, hardware

 

 

Service # Description Quantity - 0H-StarFDuct1 Static Pressure & Airflow Correction – Dual System Optimization

This service addresses elevated static pressure and airflow restrictions identified on both HVAC systems within the home. Testing has confirmed that each system is operating above manufacturer-recommended pressure levels, which can reduce comfort, efficiency, and overall system lifespan.

Scope of work includes a full evaluation and correction of airflow restrictions on both systems to restore proper performance and balance.

Return Air Optimization - Includes identifying and reducing restrictions on the return side of the system. Work may include upgrading filtration to a high-capacity media filter, improving return airflow by modifying or adding return ducting, and addressing any blockages or airflow limitations. These improvements allow the system to properly pull air back for consistent circulation and comfort.

Supply Air Optimization - Includes identifying and reducing restrictions on the supply side of the system. Work may include resizing or modifying supply plenums, correcting ductwork issues such as kinks or undersized runs, adjusting dampers, and ensuring proper airflow delivery throughout the home.

These improvements allow the system to properly distribute conditioned air evenly.

 

Included With Both Systems

Static pressure testing and verification before and after improvements

Airflow balancing to optimize system performance

Adjustment of blower settings (if applicable) to match system design

Inspection and cleaning of accessible components affecting airflow

Final performance testing to confirm systems are operating within recommended

specifications

 

Benefits of This Service

Improved comfort and more even temperatures throughout the home

Increased system efficiency and lower operating strain

Reduced risk of premature equipment failure

Proper airflow delivery to all areas of the home

Maximized performance of existing HVAC equipment

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2nd quote has a lower bill of 2.2k, where they stated that the other option "is the recommended/cheaper option for lowering the static pressure in your system.  The only alternative would be to replace all the ductwork in the home, which is not a realistic/cost effective solution..."

(2x) AddDuctRun supply and install ductwork for independent duct run off of an existing system.

Includes duct, insulation, finish register, labor to install. - $950.00,  $950.00

Labor 1 hour labor to install the basement vents

1 Hour of Labor for an HVAC repair - $130.00

(3) TAI102M10X6 “TRUaire's 100 series style registers mainstay of new residential construction for more than 50 years. Truaire's stamped registers are a cost effective solution for residential applications and come in 2-way air throw patterns. can be installed in sidewalls and ceilings. These registers can be ordered with an optional aluminum opposed blade damper that has a screwdriver adjustment which is accessible through the face of the registers. $55.00 - $165.00

 

TAI401M12X12 The blades on the face of the 400 series are stamped in a curve. This configuration provides a classy look, , and a more even air pattern, all with the cost benefit of stamped steel.

 Total 2,262

 

And that's it! if there's any more info you need I'll be glad to provide. THanks for getting this far if you were able to stay awake till the end.