AC Repair Cost by Type of Unit
There are several types of AC units. Repairs range from simple to difficult and cheap to expensive. When pricing repair costs, the goal is to evaluate if you can save more money fixing the unit than replacing it. For example, window air conditioning units are inexpensive, may be more costly to fix, and offer low return on investment. The following table shows the various AC units and the average professional cost to repair.
Window AC Repair Cost
The average cost for window AC repairs is between $75 and $150. Window ACs are the cheapest to fix and do not have as many issues as other systems because they are smaller and have fewer components. This means fewer things can go wrong. However, they have some common issues, such as malfunctioning compressors, thermostat 1 failure, and blower 2 problems. They can also need readjustment if they were mounted 3 incorrectly.
Portable AC Repair Cost
Costs to fix portable AC units range from $80 to $250 for each repair. Like window units, portable AC units are relatively inexpensive to fix and have low-cost components but can still suffer from clogged or dirty filters, tube condensation, leaks, and fan or thermostat issues. They may require various replacement parts or professional adjustments to work.
Central Air Repair Cost
Expect to pay between $100 and $550 to repair a central air unit. Some of the most common repairs for central air include clogged drain lines 4, thermostat replacement, and fixing refrigerant leaks. Central air or HVAC repair costs may increase due to a more complicated system. Central air system repairs can be avoided with routine maintenance. An HVAC professional can schedule an annual visit to change filters, check the system, and clean ductwork.
Variable-Capacity Air Repair Cost
The average cost of repairs for variable-capacity air conditioners is between $100 and $550. Variable-capacity units are central air conditioners that are more energy-efficient than the old single-stage and two-stage systems because they operate at a variable level to suit surrounding conditions and temperatures. They have the same common problems as other central air units, such as damaged thermostats and leaks.
Swamp Cooler Repair Cost
Repair costs for swamp coolers 5 range from $125 to $550. Some of the most common repairs for these units include replacing, replacing pads, and fixing or replacing the pump 6. A swamp cooler unit is simpler than an HVAC unit and is not recommended for hot and humid areas. Specialized technicians must be hired to work on this system. You may need to hire a professional outside your immediate service area, leading to additional labor and travel costs. Like central air, swamp coolers need routine maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
Geothermal AC Repair
The cost of geothermal air conditioning repair averages between $200 and $750. Geothermal air conditioning units work with subterranean temperatures to keep rooms cool during the summer. Despite the name, the designs are relatively simple, with an electrically powered heat pump 7 that transfers cool air from outdoors into a home. Geothermal systems may develop leaks, requiring professional repairs. Leaking pipes must be handled promptly because part of the system is located outdoors and can cause issues if the refrigerant leaks into the ground. The pump could also break and require repair or replacement.
HVAC Package Unit Repair
The repair cost for most HVAC package unit issues ranges from $300 to $600. An HVAC package unit includes air conditioning and heating elements in a single configuration. The package unit may rely on electric or gas elements to heat and cool. These units can have issues like ignition problems and thermostat malfunctions. However, the fixes are relatively simple in most cases. The unit often requires a filter change or other basic maintenance, such as recharging.
Mini Split Repair Cost
Repairing a ductless mini-split AC is usually more expensive than fixing other units, averaging $750 to $900. Ductless mini-splits do not require ductwork to cool a room, so repairs are normally made to other parts, such as the air handle or circuit board. Most mini-split buyers consider opting for extended warranty coverage to protect their system for 5 years or more because they are expensive to fix.
The reason that ductless mini split repairs, on average, are more costly than central AC repairs is due to the fact that a majority of mini split repairs involve 1 of the 2 circuit boards. There is one on the indoor unit as well as the outdoor unit.
AC Repair Prices by Type of Repair
Replacement costs add up quickly, so it is always a good idea to consider repairing the system rather than replacing parts. This is especially true if your AC unit is not very old. Contact an HVAC specialist when you notice an issue with your air conditioning unit. The professional comes to your home to diagnose the issue and provide an estimate. Repairs may take only a few hours, while others could require several days. You may need the following repairs. The estimated professional pricing is shown in the following table.
| Type | Average Repair Costs |
|---|
| Thermostat | $100 - $200 |
| Blower | $150 - $250 |
| Capacitor | $150 - $400 |
| Circuit Board | $200 - $300 |
| AC Coil | $200 - $500 |
| Refrigerant Recharge | $200 - $700 |
| Expansion Valve | $250 - $400 |
| Fan Motor | $250 - $500 |
| Condenser | $275 - $600 |
| Air Duct | $500 - $1,200 |
| Compressor | $600 - $1,200 |
AC Thermostat Repair
Thermostat repair costs between $100 and $200. Faulty thermostats can cause many common issues. A bad thermostat may lead a system to run constantly or cause very short cycles. Thermostats fail due to poor maintenance and buildup of dirt and grime. A professional can evaluate the thermostat to determine if it needs repair or replacement and make the proper recommendations.
AC Blower Repair Cost
Repairing an AC blower costs $150 to $250. This motor makes the fan blades move inside the unit so that the house stays cool. The AC blower is vital because it decreases hot air and pushes cool air out. You may notice issues like increased temperatures. Your system may also be constantly running without the right cycling. If the blower fails, the air conditioner may not turn on.
AC Capacitor Repair Cost
Repairing an air conditioning capacitor costs $150 to $400. The capacitor supplies the energy for your system to start. It sends a thrust of energy to start or keep a motor going. The capacitor works with the compressor, outside unit, and blower motor. Since the capacitor controls so many moving parts, the air conditioner is not likely to operate when it needs repair. Like other AC components, capacitors degrade, and the wiring may become loose or frayed. Capacitors may simply need rewiring or readjustment, but they may also have to be replaced, costing significantly more.
AC Circuit Board Repair Cost
Repair costs for a circuit board run from $200 to $300. The circuit board is the electronic system that runs your AC. You could call it the brain of the operation because it makes decisions about the correct voltage in certain circumstances. A bad circuit board is likely to cause a significant malfunction that stops your system from running. The issue may cause faulty thermostat readings. The most common reason circuit boards break is due to physical damage, but they can also be damaged by power failures or overloading.
AC Coil Repair Cost
The cost to fix air conditioning coils by a professional is $200 to $500. Air conditioning coils can become problematic if they freeze. There are two coils in most units, an evaporator coil and condenser coil, and the costs to repair both are similar. The evaporator is filled with a refrigerant. If airflow around these coils is not warm enough, they can freeze and stop working properly. Condenser coils may need to be fixed by a professional. Dirty coils can cause performance issues. Cleaning and maintenance resolve the issue.
AC Recharge Cost
The cost to have freon 8 recharged is $200 to $700. Refrigerant recharge is usually done after a leak is repaired because the levels are low. You should not need a recharge if the unit is working properly in most cases. Frequently recharging the freon indicates an underlying problem and may require replacing the unit or system. However, a recharge is commonplace in cases of leaks and is part of the repair process for dealing with leaks.
AC Expansion Valve Repair Cost
The cost to repair an air conditioning expansion valve is $250 to $400. This part changes the liquid refrigerant into a vapor. Once the refrigerant is converted to vapor, the expansion valve pushes it into the evaporator. Expansion valves have to withstand high amounts of pressure, which can cause the valve to break and stop functioning. Debris can also become lodged in the valve. A sign of a bad expansion valve is when the unit is not cooling well or not at all. The air from the vents may feel cold and then suddenly hot. Airflow from vents could also be affected.
AC Fan Motor Repair Cost
Repair costs for an air conditioning fan motor range from $250 to $500. The fan motor cools the refrigerant to keep your unit from becoming too hot. It does this by cooling the heated refrigerant, which travels through the AC coils. A motor failure is not common, but the unit may not turn on when a repair is needed. Noisy operation may indicate the fan is not operating properly. Various issues like electrical overloads, degradation of interior components, or overheating can cause motor failure.
AC Condenser Repair Cost
Fixing an air conditioning condenser costs $275 to $600. An air conditioning condenser needs repair when it shows wear. You may notice loud noises coming from the unit. An active leak from the unit is another sign the condenser has a problem. If certain parts inside the condenser are bad, the professional may make a few minor repairs instead of replacing the condenser. Dirt or debris may need to be removed to improve performance. A faulty switch may also need replacement in the condenser.
Air Duct Repair Cost
Air duct repairs range between $500 and $1,200. The homeowner can notice clear signs indicating necessary duct repair. Notably, the room should be warmer than other spaces. You may notice reduced airflow from vents or filters that clog quickly. A professional can make several repairs to fix the ducts in an HVAC system. The ducts may need to be reinsulated. There could also be a leak that must be repaired to improve airflow. These issues could be caused by the system’s age or pests inside the ducts.
AC Compressor Repair Cost
Because a compressor is so important to an air conditioning unit, repairs are often costly, at $600 to $1,200. If your unit is old, it may be wise to consider replacing the compressor for $1,000 to $2,500. Your compressor is the pressure system that increases the temperature of the refrigerant. It is often referred to as the heart of the system. Signs of a compressor issue are directly related to whether hot or cold air circulates through the system. Common causes of failed compressors include a lack of refrigerant, contamination in the system, and dirty coils.
Average Cost to Repair AC by Type of Replacement
AC units are made up of many parts that work together to make the entire unit operate efficiently. Like human bodies, if one part isn’t working correctly, the system will break down or work harder to cool the home. Some common parts that need to be replaced are:
| Replacement Part | Average Costs |
|---|
| Thermostat | $100 - $600 |
| Capacitor | $200 - $600 |
| Circuit Board | $200 - $650 |
| Expansion Valve | $250 - $500 |
| Fan Motor | $400 - $800 |
| Evaporator Coil | $600 - $3,000 |
| Condenser Coil | $750 - $3,000 |
| Compressor | $1,000 - $2,500 |
AC Thermostat Replacement Cost
AC thermostat replacement costs vary by the features, but the range is $100 to $600. The thermostat continuously monitors the temperature inside the house to keep your home at the correct temperature. With a bad thermostat, you do not have proper control over the temperature. The air conditioning could run constantly and never turn off. It may also not read the air temperature properly and not know when to cycle on. If serious damage has occurred to the thermostat, a replacement is recommended over a repair because these components are delicate and tricky to fix.
AC Capacitor Replacement Cost
The cost to replace a capacitor for an air conditioner is $200 to $600. The capacitor reserves electrons to supply energy for the system to start when needed. A heat pump capacitor circulates cold air. If it goes bad, you should notice warm air blowing out of the vents. If a capacitor has become misshapen or started to bulge or burst, repairs are not possible, and the unit needs replacing.
AC Circuit Board Replacement Cost
Replacement costs for a circuit board are $200 to $650. The circuit board runs your AC’s electrical system. Since it controls the electrical component, the air conditioning unit may not turn on if it requires replacement. You could also notice certain parts are prone to overheating. If a circuit board is not working, the compressor does not operate. If parts of the board are fried or burned, the entire thing usually needs replacing.
AC Expansion Valve Replacement Cost
Replacing an expansion valve costs $250 to $500. The expansion valve decreases the pressure in the liquid refrigerant and changes it to vapor. An underperforming air conditioner indicates that the expansion valve needs replacement. Utility bills during the summer months are likely higher because of expansion valve issues. You may also notice frost buildup on vents. The valve must be replaced if it is cracked or has other physical damages that prevent it from functioning.
AC Fan Motor Replacement Cost
Replacement for a fan motor costs $400 to $800. The price depends on the fan level because higher-end models are more expensive, and some models cost over $1,500, but most are within the average range provided. The fan motor prevents the unit from overheating by cooling the heated refrigerant. The most evident sign you have a problem is the fan failing to turn on. When the fan works properly, it turns on periodically and runs for set periods. Another sign is that the fan turns on but runs slowly. You could also hear noisy operation. Motors need replacing if they are burnt out and fail to turn on or have serious internal damage.
Evaporator Coil Replacement Cost
Replacing an evaporator coil costs $600 to $3,000. An evaporator coil’s purpose is to push heat from inside the house to the condenser to be cooled. Signs of a bad evaporator coil are that the house is not cooling properly with the air conditioning running constantly. The unit may not turn on if the coil must be replaced. Coil issues could eventually lead to leaks and require professional replacement. The following are costs you can expect to pay to replace an evaporator coil based on tonnage for parts only.
| Evaporator Coil Size | Cost (Parts and Labor) |
|---|
| 1.5 Tons | $600 - $1,300 |
| 2 Tons | $650 - $1,500 |
| 2.5 Tons | $700 - $1,750 |
| 3 Tons | $800 - $2,000 |
| 3.5 Tons | $900 - $2,250 |
| 4 Tons | $1,000 - $2,500 |
| 5 Tons | $1,500 - $3,000 |
Condenser Coil Replacement Cost
The average cost for condenser coil replacement for your home air conditioning is $750 to $3,000. Like evaporator coils, costs vary depending on the coil size, but the part prices are slightly higher. Condenser coils that are not working cause your air conditioner not to turn on. If the unit is operating, the air coming from the vents is likely warm. The system may turn on and off frequently until you replace the condenser coil. Condenser coils require replacement because of poor maintenance from dirt and debris buildup.
AC Compressor Replacement Cost
Compressors cost $1,000 to $2,500. The compressor creates pressure in the refrigerant to increase the temperature above what it is outdoors. Signs of a bad compressor are that the air does not cool properly and the hot air is not being released outdoors. You may hear loud noises coming from the unit. If the AC compressor clutch fails to turn on, it may not operate. AC compressor clutch replacement costs $600 to $750 to fix.
Cost of Other Common AC Replacements
In some cases, a less frequent issue could occur with your air conditioning unit. In these scenarios, an HVAC technician may be required to order a special part from the warehouse. It might take some time for these parts to arrive because they are not needed as often because they tend to break less frequently than other parts. This may increase the price or lengthen the timeframe for completion. The following are other common AC part replacements and costs you may need when your system is not operating properly.
| Replacement Type | Average Costs |
|---|
| Fuse | $75 - $300 |
| Belt | $100 - $200 |
| Relay | $100 - $300 |
| Condensate Pump | $150 - $500 |
| Drain Pan | $150 - $650 |
| Contactor | $175 - $400 |
| Line Set | $200 - $700 |
| Blower | $250 - $800 |
| Air Handler 9 | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Duct | $2,000 - $12,000 |
AC Fuse Replacement Cost
The cost to replace fuses is $75 to $300. Fuses in an AC unit are like fuses in a car. If they get overloaded, they blow. If a fuse is blown, there is no power to the air conditioning unit, and it does not operate. Fuses are normally quick fixes. The only possible issue is a lack of accessibility, and it is difficult for the technician to reach the fuse. For example, you could be charged for each hour of labor it takes to access the blown fuses if the technician cannot simply switch out parts. If furniture or other objects need to be moved or the air conditioner must be taken apart to get to the broken piece, your costs increase.
AC Belt Replacement Cost
A professional charges $100 to $200 to change the belt in your air conditioning unit. Belt replacements are relatively minor jobs. You can easily determine if a belt is no longer working in a unit by hearing a squealing noise when the system is operating. The unit may stop working if the belt snaps. Prevent belt issues by checking for wear during routine maintenance appointments. You need to replace belts if they are burned, seriously damaged, or snapped.
AC Relay Replacement Cost
Replacing a relay costs $100 to $300. Relays send voltage to the different parts to turn on and off. Because this part controls the system, it cannot power on if the relay switch fails. You may notice poor cooling in the home before a relay fails. The compressor cannot turn on without a properly functioning relay. Your relay must be replaced if it has failed because repairs are not possible with this component.
Condensate Pump Replacement Cost
A condensate pump costs $150 to $500. Condensation forms when the air is pushed through the evaporator coil. This condensation must be removed so that the system does not become too moist. The condensate pump removes the water. You may notice leaks or standing water if this issue occurs with the unit. You need a new pump if your old one is damaged beyond repair and fails to start.
AC Drain Pan Replacement Cost
An AC drip pan replacement costs $150 to $650. Drain pans rarely need replacement. This part usually holds up well throughout the HVAC system’s lifetime. The only possible reason a drain pan needs replacement is if cracks have developed from blunt force. Leaks are seen, and the dripping water can damage other parts. Standing water is a typical sign of a damaged drain pan. If your pan is severely cracked or has holes, it must be replaced to prevent leaks.
The average cost to replace an AC contactor is $175 to $400. When you have a malfunctioning AC contactor, you notice a distinct noise from the unit. There is typically a humming sound. However, the humming sound continues without the unit powering on. There could also be a chattering sound before the contactor fails. Contactors often fail due to electrical shorts and need to be replaced because the damage from an electrical overload cannot be undone.
Cost to Replace an AC Line Set
Line sets cost approximately $200 to $700 for replacement in a home. Replacing a line set is not commonly required. Even when installing a new air conditioner, you can use the same line set. However, you need a new one if the line set gets damaged or kinked. Refrigerant leaks also require a new line set. Line sets confirm the HVAC system’s efficiency and must be sized for each air conditioner.
AC Blower Replacement Cost
The replacement cost for an AC blower is $250 to $800. This motor turns the blades to push air through the system. Like other motors, it can be damaged from physical impacts, electrical overloads, and internal component failures. The most obvious sign you need a new blower is weak airflow through the vents. There may be no air moving at all when the blower fails. Utility bills are normally affected by a bad AC blower.
Air Handler Replacement Cost
Replacing an air handler costs $1,000 to $3,000. Airflow is impacted when the air handler in an air conditioner does not work properly. You may not feel cool air through the vents or a limited amount. You may also smell a foul odor if the air handler is not working properly. The odor is most likely from moisture building up in the system. Air handler issues are commonly seen in systems older than 10 years.
AC Duct Replacement Cost
Replacing ductwork costs $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the project’s extent. Air conditioning duct replacements can be a significant job if there is a severe issue. Signs that you need to update your ductwork include noisy AC operation and poor energy efficiency. The home is likely to experience uneven heating and cooling. You may notice a pest problem related to the air conditioning ducts. Common pests in ductwork include roaches, spiders, mice, and snakes, which can severely damage the ducts. They need replacing if they are corroded, cracked, or excessively worn.
AC Repair Cost per Hour
An AC unit is a highly technical appliance with high and low-voltage circuits, which can be deadly if improperly handled. Most HVAC technicians charge a basic service call fee for diagnostics followed by additional fees for labor and parts. The fee quoted for parts usually includes the labor required to install the parts and the price of the parts. The fee for a basic service call averages $75 to $200. If wage is charged, expect to pay $65 to $150 an hour. Once a diagnostic assessment is made, the fee for parts and labor starts. When an older unit starts to break down, the damage and cost of increasingly labor-intensive repairs come close to a full replacement.
AC Repair Cost by Problem
Many problems may arise with your AC system, from minor issues like clogged filters that need cleaning or replacing to more serious issues like the AC failing to turn on, making strange sounds, or emitting an unpleasant smell. Repair costs vary depending on the problem and the repair steps needed to fix it. The table below shows common problems and the average cost to fix each.
| Problem | Average Costs |
|---|
| Clogged Air Filter | $75 - $200 |
| Not Turning On | $75 - $2,000 |
| Clogged AC Drain | $100 - $250 |
| Drainage Problems | $100 - $400 |
| Sensor Problems | $100 - $500 |
| Weak Airflow | $100 - $1,500 |
| Not Blowing Cold Air | $100 - $2,000 |
| Freezing Up | $150 - $2,000 |
| Noisy | $150 - $2,500 |
| Smells Bad | $200 - $1,750 |
| Freon Leak | $500 - $1,750 |
| Coil Leak | $500 - $2,000 |
Fix a Clogged Air Filter of an Air Conditioner
Consumers pay $75 to $200 for a clogged air filter because the contractor charges a minimum service charge to clean or change the air filter. A clogged air filter causes your system to overwork and burn out. Clogged air filters reduce airflow through the vents. The room’s air quality may be compromised. You might notice increased utility bills during the summer months.
AC Not Turning On
The average cost to fix an AC that is not turning on ranges from $75 to $2,000. The reason for this wide price range is there are several causes of an AC that does not turn on, and some are much cheaper to fix than others. For example, you may have a blown fuse or slightly damaged circuit board. Or, you could have a more serious and costly problem, such as a broken motor that must be replaced.
Unclog an AC Drain Line Cost
Fixing a clogged AC drain costs $100 to $250. Drain lines become obstructed by dirt, leaves, and other debris. Blockages result in mold and mildew and cause smells and increased humidity. When you observe the unit, you may notice active drips or standing water. There could also be cycling issues related to the clog. A common method to deal with clogs is to flush the AC unit and wash the blockage.
Drainage Problems
The average cost to fix drainage problems in an AC unit is between $100 and $400. The most common drainage problems with AC systems are clogs, which must be flushed, mold growth in the drain tube, which must be cleaned out, or a blockage in the drain trap, which also needs thorough cleaning to deal with the problem. Costs may be higher if these parts are hard to access.
Sensor Problems
If you have sensor issues with your AC, expect to pay between $100 and $500 to fix the problem. Sensors measure the temperature with the thermostat to control the HVAC system’s temperature and airflow. You can notice sensor problems if your AC keeps running when the home is cool or if it gets uncomfortably cold.
AC Weak Airflow
The average cost to repair an AC with weak airflow is between $100 and $1,500. The reason for this wide price range is that there are several possible causes of weak airflow, and some are much less expensive to fix than others. It might be caused by a clogged filter that needs changing or something more serious like leaky ducts, a broken blower, or a frozen evaporator coil.
Not Blowing Cold Air
Homeowners usually spend between $100 to $2,000 to fix an AC that does not blow cold air. There are a few possible causes of this. It could be due to a refrigerant leak, and the system may need recharging. It could also be caused by issues with the evaporator coil, condenser, or a thermostat issue if the AC does not detect the correct temperature. These parts may need repairing or replacing, depending on the severity.
AC Unit Freezing Up
The average cost to fix an AC unit freezing up is between $150 and $2,000. You can tell your unit is freezing if you spot ice on the pipes or coils or condensation is forming around the surface. This often happens due to a lack of airflow, which may be caused by dirty filters that need changing, clogged lines that need cleaning, or a damaged or faulty fan that must be repaired or replaced. The price depends on the amount of work required and the type of parts you need.
AC Making Noises
The average cost to repair a noisy AC is between $150 and $2,500, and there are many possible causes. For example, banging noises can be caused by compressor issues, while humming sounds might appear due to a broken relay. A repairman must identify the source and take the appropriate action, including repairs or replacements of relays, fans, compressors, or thermostats.
AC Smells Bad
Homeowners spend between $200 and $1,750 to fix an AC that smells bad. There are various reasons why your unit may smell bad, including refrigerant leaks, burned wires or circuit boards, drainage issues, pests in the ducts or unit, or a buildup of stagnant water in the lines or pan. Various repair methods may be used, such as flushing the system, removing pests, cleaning the ducts, or repairing the leak.
AC Freon Leak Repair Cost
Freon is the cooling refrigerant that runs your AC. If there is a leak, fixing it could cost $500 to $1,750. The cost depends on the leak’s severity and location. Freon leaks may be considered an emergency because they cause environmental and health issues. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, adverse health effects can occur when you sniff or swallow the refrigerant. Exposure can cause difficulty breathing and lead to fluid buildup in your lungs. Loss of consciousness may occur if the freon is inhaled for prolonged periods.
You may need to pay extra to a professional for an emergency service call to resolve the issue quickly. The air conditioning unit blowing warm air and low airflow are often signs of a freon leak.
Air Conditioner Coil Leak Repair Cost
The cost to repair a coil is about the same as a replacement at $500 to $2,000. Depending on your system’s age, it may be wiser to replace it. The evaporator coil on your AC removes heat from the house and releases it to the condenser to be cooled. Coil leaks can cause operational issues, such as low airflow and poor temperature regulation. The most common cause of coil leaks is corrosion of the tubing inside the coil from exposure to water and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in the air.
Home AC Repair Cost by Brand
The brand of air conditioner could impact the repair. As you may expect, it usually costs less to repair if you pay less for your AC unit and buy from a value brand like Bryant and American Standard because the parts are less expensive. However, cheaper AC units are also at risk of breaking more often and suffering common problems like malfunctioning circuit boards, fan motor issues, and thermostat problems.
More expensive brands, like SpacePak, Armstrong, and York, cost more money to repair because of the higher component cost. However, more expensive models are usually better-assembled, decreasing the risk of problems and repairs. However, even the most expensive models can develop issues, and some high-end brands suffer issues with refrigerant leaks and coil problems.
When you buy an air conditioner, it is a good idea to not only look at the brand but also see the warranty. Some brands, like Payne and Carrier, offer 10-year warranty options as standard, while others, like American Standard and Lennox, offer 5 to 10-year options. Naturally, getting a unit with the longest warranty makes sense because it covers repair costs for a longer time. The table below shows average repair costs for some of the main AC brands.
| Brand | Average Repair Costs |
|---|
| Bryant | $200 - $600 |
| American Standard | $200 - $650 |
| Lennox | $300 - $800 |
| Goodman | $350 - $900 |
| Payne | $400 - $800 |
| Carrier | $400 - $1,000 |
| SpacePak | $500 - $2,000 |
| Armstrong | $500 - $1,500 |
| York | $600 - $1,500 |
Emergency AC Repair Cost
One of the most frustrating parts of living in an area that is hot or humid is the fear of the AC going out during hot months. Most AC repair companies do emergency AC repairs. However, you most likely pay more for a night, weekend, or holiday visit. If your compressor goes out and it is 90º outside, you pay whatever it costs for an emergency visit. You may also require urgent repairs if the system is leaking. Emergency AC repair costs usually add $100 to $200 to the standard repair cost because this involves repairmen adjusting their schedules or visiting your property outside standard working hours.
How to Tell If Your AC Is Broken
In most cases, homeowners notice the air conditioner isn’t working when a room or multiple rooms don’t cool. However, there are other signs, including complete power loss. The air conditioner may constantly be running or going through very short cycles. Due to the erratic running of the unit, you’ll likely see an increase in your utility bills.
Make it a point to routinely inspect your air conditioner to check for other issues that may be less evident. You may see water around the unit or some frost buildup on the lines or vents. There could be a musty or foul odor coming from the vents or around the air conditioning unit. When you pass your hand in front of each vent, you may not feel any airflow, or the air may be warm. Listen for any strange noises alerting you to a possible issue. Any squealing or grinding noise could indicate a broken part inside the unit.
Don’t ignore any early warning signs that your unit might be experiencing trouble. Even if the problem seems minor, if you delay the repair, then the problem could worsen. You could end up paying higher energy bills, replacing even more parts, ending up with a fully broken system for a while before you can get an appointment, and/or ultimately having to replace your whole system instead of making a small repair.
AC Repair vs Replace Cost
You may hesitate between repairing or replacing your AC. Usually, there are two factors to consider: cost and age. The average cost of AC repairs ranges from $200 to $600, while the average cost of installing a new unit varies from $500 to $15,000, depending on the unit. Repair costs are usually much cheaper than replacement costs, but it may be in your best interest to replace your unit if it keeps breaking down or has major issues, and this could save money in the long run.
You should also think about age. On average, AC units last 10 to 20 years before they need replacing. So, if your unit is younger than this, and especially if it is still under warranty, it is best to get it repaired rather than replaced. However, if your system is getting older, it is more likely to break down and require regular repair and maintenance, leading to higher costs. So, replacement may be best for older units.
| Repair or Replace | Average Cost |
|---|
| Repair | $200 - $600 |
| Replace | $500 - $15,000 |
AC Maintenance Cost
An AC unit requires annual or biannual maintenance. In many cases, maintenance must be performed by a licensed AC company to maintain the unit’s warranty. The average cost of this regular AC maintenance is $100 to $200. During a maintenance call, an HVAC technician inspects and cleans the inside and outdoor units, changes or cleans the filter, and cleans the unit’s drains. The HVAC technician also checks the system’s coolant levels to ensure the unit is functioning properly.
A homeowner can take several steps to maintain their AC unit. Regularly check the air filter for dirt and debris. Most professionals recommend changing filters every 3 months for HVAC systems. The exterior components must also be maintained. Turn off the power to the air conditioner while cleaning around the unit. Remove overgrowth and brush from the base and discard accumulated debris you can access from inside the unit.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Insurance coverage. Insurance such as homeowners' insurance does not cover HVAC repairs. In some situations, a home warranty insurance plan may include the cost of repairs.
- DIY. If your air conditioning unit is not working, you should check the thermostat and the circuit breaker before calling an HVAC repair company. The thermostat may be experiencing problems, or the breaker might have tripped. Checking such things helps you avoid paying for a service call when it’s not needed.
- Warranty and brand information. When you call to make an appointment with an HVAC professional, you should know the type of equipment installed in your home. Make a note of the brand name, the model of the unit, and the approximate age of the system. You should also let the company know if the unit has any warranties or a home warranty on your house covering the HVAC system. If you have an AC FAQ booklet, you can read through the booklet to determine the possible cause of any of the unit’s symptoms.
- Certifications. Any HVAC company that you call to work on your equipment should be certified. Ask for the company’s NATE, AHRI, and EPA 608 certifications. NATE stands for the North American Technician Excellence certification. The AHRI is offered by an independent, third-party organization called the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). The EPA 608 certification authorizes HVAC service technicians to work with refrigerants.
- Estimates. Before you make an appointment to have an HVAC service technician come out to your home, you should always ask about the company’s financing for larger projects. You should also ask if the company gives free written estimates and provides warranties on their parts or labor.
- SEER. New AC models feature a SEER rating. The term SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating . To figure out an AC unit’s SEER rating, a ratio of cooling in British thermal units (BTU) is figured with the energy consumed in watt-hours. AC units older than 15 years usually have a SEER rating of 6 or less, but the new AC models boast SEER ratings of at least 14. Some even have 18 or higher. A new unit provides considerable energy savings compared to an older model.
FAQs
- Is it worth fixing an AC?
This depends on your unit’s age and condition. In most cases, it is much cheaper and worth it to repair an AC. If the unit is old and damaged, a replacement might be better.
- How much does it cost to fix an AC blower?
It costs $150 to $250 to repair your air conditioner’s blower, but prices are higher if a replacement is needed.
- How much does it cost to recover AC?
It costs $200 to $700 to recharge your AC unit and replace the freon after a leak or other issue.
- How much does it cost to replace an air conditioning unit?
Depending on how extensive a change out you need, the unit size, and if ductwork is required, you pay between $500 and $15,000.
- Why is my air conditioner not cooling?
Your air conditioner may have a part malfunction, or your unit may be low on freon. There could also be an issue with the air conditioner’s compressor or airflow switch. It could be a simple fix, such as a dirty air filter or clogged drain.
- How do I reset my air conditioning unit?
Turn off the power switch located on the thermostat. You can trip the breaker that operates the AC unit to reset it. Wait a full minute until you turn the breaker back on. Turn the thermostat power switch back on.
- How much does it cost to fix an air conditioner?
Fixing an air conditioning unit in your home costs $200 to $600. Minor issues, such as clogged air filters, blown fuses, and coolant changes, are not costly. However, costly repairs may occur if you need a technician to fix issues with the compressor or coils. These may come with costs of above $2,000.
- How do you unfreeze an air conditioner?
If your air conditioner has accumulated ice on the unit, then there is a problem. You will need to turn the unit off and let the ice melt away. While the ice is melting, you will need to call an HVAC company to come to diagnose the problem and fix the unit, so it no longer freezes up.
- How much does it cost to replace a coil in an air conditioner?
A coil replacement averages $600 to $3,000. The project cost depends on the coil you need for your air conditioner. Air conditioners use condenser and evaporator coils, which require replacement if they stop operating.
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