Select your region above
We'll show the typical day rate, hourly rate, and how your region compares nationally.
Day rates (8-hour day, labour only)
Minimum
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per day
Typical
Day Rate
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per day
Maximum
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per day
Hourly rates (day rate ÷ 8)
Minimum
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per hour
Typical
Typical
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per hour
Maximum
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per hour
All regions
| Region | Min / day | Typical / day | Max / day |
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Important: Rates are indicative benchmarks only. Always obtain at least three quotes before commissioning work. Figures are for labour only, excluding materials, VAT, and call-out charges.
About these figures
Day rates are for self-employed tradespeople working an 8-hour day, labour only. Hourly rates are calculated as day rate ÷ 8. Benchmarked against Checkatrade and UK industry surveys, updated April 2026.
Why rates vary by region
Cost of living, demand, and local competition all affect day rates. London and the South East typically run 30–45% above the national midpoint. The North East, Wales, and Northern Ireland sit 15–20% below.
How to use this data
Use these figures to sense-check quotes — not as a fixed price. Experience, accreditations, and job complexity all affect pricing. Always get at least three written quotes before committing to any work.
HVAC Engineer day rate — frequently asked questions
HVAC engineer day rates range from £235/day in Northern Ireland to £640/day in London. The national typical is around £325–£385/day. Commercial HVAC engineers tend to charge more than those working exclusively on domestic systems.
Look for F-Gas certification (required for work on refrigerant systems), Gas Safe registration if working on gas heating, and REFCOM or ACRIB membership for air conditioning. Many HVAC engineers also hold City & Guilds or NVQ Level 3 qualifications.
A heating engineer specialises in central heating and boilers. An HVAC engineer covers the broader spectrum including ventilation systems, air handling units, heat pumps, and air conditioning. The work requires more diverse qualifications and commands a higher day rate.
Heat pump installations typically cost £8,000–£15,000 including equipment and labour. Government grants under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can reduce this by up to £7,500. The HVAC engineer labour component typically runs 3–5 days of the installation.
Commercial HVAC systems should be serviced every 3–6 months. Domestic air source heat pumps should have an annual service. Regular servicing maintains efficiency and is often required to keep manufacturer warranties valid.