Overview

Labor is the most variable and highest-risk cost in HVAC estimating. This module covers how to calculate labor using manhour units and adjust for field productivity, working conditions, and crew performance. Learn to build realistic crew expectations and apply labor factors to your takeoffs.

Learning Objectives

• Understand what affects labor costs in HVAC installations
• Use manhour charts to estimate task durations
• Adjust labor for difficulty, access, and schedule pressure
• Estimate by system type (duct, pipe, equipment, controls)
• Build a field-ready labor productivity breakdown

Sources for Labor Units

• SMACNA labor tables (ductwork installation)
• MCAA or PHCC labor guides (piping and equipment)
• Historical job data from completed projects
• Input from field superintendents or lead techs

Common Labor Productivity Factors

• Height & Access: Work above 10 ft may cut productivity by 25–50%
• Congestion: Tight spaces reduce crew efficiency
• Project Type: Schools vs warehouses vs healthcare
• Coordination: Shared space with other trades adds delay
• Weather/Overtime: External impacts to morale and speed

Labor Estimating Example

• Ductwork: 0.25 manhours per LF (standard install)
• 90 Elbow: 1.2 manhours each
• VAV Box w/ controls: 6.0 manhours each
• Add 10% for work above ceiling grid or shaft installs

Example: 200 LF of duct x 0.25 = 50 labor hours

Building a Crew Plan

• Define crew makeup: 2 installers + 1 apprentice = 1 crew
• Estimate total hours, then divide by crew size
• Account for learning curve and supervision needs
• Plan based on weekly goals (e.g. 300 LF/week)
• Schedule with float for prep and inspections