How Much Does It Cost to Repair AC?
Most AC repairs cost $150-$500. Common fixes like capacitor replacement run $150-$250, refrigerant recharge costs $200-$500, fan motor replacement is $200-$450, and compressor replacement is $800-$2,000+. Emergency and after-hours calls add $75-$150 to the base price. If the repair exceeds 50% of a new system cost and the unit is over 15 years old, replacement is usually smarter.
THE DETAILS
Capacitor replacement ($150-$250) is the most common AC repair. If your AC hums but will not start, or shuts off randomly, a bad capacitor is often the cause.
Refrigerant recharge ($200-$500) is needed when the system is low on refrigerant due to a leak. The cost depends on how much refrigerant is needed and whether the leak needs to be located and sealed.
Fan motor replacement ($200-$450) is needed when the outdoor fan is not spinning or is spinning slowly.
Compressor replacement ($800-$2,000+) is the most expensive repair. At this price point, it often makes more sense to replace the entire system, especially if the unit is over 10-12 years old.
After-hours and emergency calls typically add $75-$150 to the service call fee. Scheduling repairs during regular business hours saves money.
🔧 WHEN TO CALL A PRO
For any AC problem beyond a filter change or thermostat adjustment, you need a licensed HVAC tech. Get a diagnosis and quote before approving any repair over $300.