Air conditioning (AC) units play a vital role in maintaining your home’s comfort, especially during extreme weather conditions. It’s the difference between your house feeling like a desert or Antarctica. However, your AC can develop issues that aren’t suitable for DIYers.
In the unfortunate event that your air conditioning unit breaks down, you’ll need the help of a professional HVAC repair specialist.
But how much will it cost to have your AC repaired?
AC repair costs depend on many factors, including AC type, issue, part, and project complexity. Some parts can be costly to repair, while others are relatively inexpensive. This guide will break down the cost of various AC repairs for you.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair an Air Conditioner?
On average, it costs between $150 and $650 to repair an air conditioner, with homeowners spending $400 on unclogging the filter, cleaning the unit, and rebooting the system.
However, as mentioned, costs can vary widely depending on the part that needs to be repaired or replaced. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of repair by the type of unit:
| Type of AC | Common Problems | Average Repair Cost ($$) |
| Central AC | Thermostat replacement, drain clog, refrigerant leak | $100 – $650 |
| Geothermal | Faulty heat pump, leaking pipes | $200 – $700 |
| Ductless mini-split | Circuit board repair | $750 – $950 |
| Portable unit | Clogged drain line | $80 – $250 |
| HVAC Package | Malfunctioning thermostat, ignition problems, refrigerant recharge | $300 – $500 |
| Window unit | Thermostat failure, compressor malfunction | $50 – $150 |
| Swamp cooler | Belt, pad, or pump replacement | $125 – $500 |
Here’s a breakdown of AC repair costs by part.
| Air Conditioner Part | Average Repair Cost ($$) |
| Thermostat replacement | $140 – $350 |
| Refrigerant recharge | $200 – $500 |
| Freon leak fix | $200 – $1,500 |
| Faulty circuit breakers, fuses, or relays | $100 – $350 |
| Evaporator coil repair | $400 – $2,400 |
| Condensing components repairs | $200 – $700 |
| AC compressor replacement | $800 -$2,800 |
The two main cost determinants are the type of AC system and the faulty part.
Other factors that may affect the cost include AC unit size, brand name, and accessibility to an HVAC technician. Also, keep in mind that AC maintenance and tune-up visits will set you back $100 – $500 yearly.
Should You Repair or Replace Your AC?
Replacing an AC unit isn’t cheap. In fact, the cost to replace an air conditioning unit is between $2,500 and $8,000. If the ductwork needs to be replaced alongside the AC unit, the cost can rise to $12,000.
So, unless the unit is in a state that only calls for replacement, it’s advisable to opt for repair. Only replace the system if:
- Your unit is more than 10 years old
- The repair cost is more than 50% of what a new system would cost
- Your unit requires frequent repairs
- Your unit uses a harmful coolant, such as R-22 Freon, which is being phased out
Finding a Professional AC Repair Specialist
No homeowner wants to handle HVAC system repair or replacement on their own.
HVAC systems repair is a specialty job that requires the help of a specialist. Most AC repairs are too much for even the most experienced DIY enthusiasts. So, for the best results, it’s advisable to seek the services of a reputable HVAC repair specialist.
A simple Google search with the terms “HVAC repair specialist near me” should populate results for a specialist near you. You can then check their online reviews and brand reputation to determine if they are perfect for the job.
If you’re in Florida, you can easily find a reputable AC company in Port Lucie, like American Air Cares, which has been in the AC installation and repair business for over 20 years. The idea is to look for a company that has built a reputable name in the HVAC space.