Highlights
HVAC repairs average around $350 but can cost more without regular maintenance.
Your location, HVAC size, and labor will influence the overall costs.
DIY is possible for some repairs, but it’s always better to ask a licensed professional.
Save money on HVAC repairs by scheduling routine maintenance.
Your HVAC unit is something your home can’t do without. It’s the difference between your home feeling like a desert or the North Pole (depending on your preferences). However, your system may occasionally run into issues that aren’t suitable for DIYers.
If so, you’ll need to find a reputable HVAC repair specialist near you. How much do HVAC repairs cost? On average, homeowners pay around $350. But if you need to replace components, it could cost you a bit more.
How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?
HVAC repairs can cost anywhere between $100 to $600. For the initial service call, technicians usually charge $100 to $250.
From there, they set an hourly rate of around $50 to $100 if additional repairs are necessary. Some contractors also charge flat rates, which could work in your favor if a project goes longer than expected. You’ll only get charged the quota price. But other issues can affect how much you’ll pay, such as:
Your home’s size
Time repairs are needed
Price of the parts
Note: The recent surge in fuel costs is impacting the overall cost of HVAC services and repairs. According to a recent survey of Angi pros, nearly 75% say they will be raising rates or plan to raise rates to help account for this added expense, which means you could see a bump in your quoted labor fees and/or trip fees.
Cost of HVAC Repairs Near You
Your location will also influence the cost of HVAC repairs. Various climates mean different demands on each system. Here are some examples of the average HVAC repair costs for homeowners by state:
State | Cost |
---|---|
New York | $500 |
Pennsylvania | $400 |
Idaho | $370 |
New Mexico | $365 |
California | $460 |
Washington | $420 |
North Dakota | $375 |
Wisconsin | $380 |
Texas | $340 |
Florida | $340 |
Remember, this doesn’t include the price of individual parts and labor performed, which may increase costs.
HVAC Repair Cost Breakdown by Part
When individual components break down, it can cost $100 to $7500, depending on the severity of your issue. Take a look at what you’ll pay for various HVAC repairs.
Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Your HVAC condenser and evaporator coils help keep your home’s temperature at a comfortable level. Evaporator coils trap the hot air that’s inside your home, and condenser coils release that air to the outside.
Their locations—usually outside and within a utility closet—cause dirt to build up over time. If they’re not maintained adequately, it can cost $400 to $1500 to replace both.
Circuit Board
Circuit boards usually need repairs when there’s a problem with electrical components like a capacitor or fuse. The parts themselves are not as expensive as others, costing between $50 and $200. However, repairing or replacing your circuit board will cost $100 to $600.
Blower or Fan Motor
There are two fans inside your HVAC unit—the condenser and the blower. They work to move conditioned air throughout your home’s ductwork. Occasionally you may hear loud screeching or banging whenever your turn on your system. If so, repairs may be necessary.
Replacing your condenser fan motor will cost between $200 and $500, while blower fan motors are $400 to $700.
Thermostat
On average, expect to pay around $175 to have your thermostat replaced. Depending on its features, the thermostat itself can cost between $15 and $300.
Getting it installed can cost around $65 to $100 an hour and should take about one to two hours to complete.
Cost to Repair an HVAC Unit Yourself
When your HVAC system starts giving you trouble, you might be tempted to break out your toolbox and fix the issue yourself. Depending on the problem, that might not be a bad idea, although you’ll want to avoid common HVAC repair mistakes like using quick fixes and skipping troubleshooting methods. Smaller repairs like changing your HVAC filter are easy and inexpensive, costing between $10 to $50.
Cost to Install It Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor
Installing an HVAC unit yourself is possible when you have the knowledge and technical skills to back it up. But that doesn’t mean it’ll be cheaper. Some repairs require special tools that only licensed HVAC technicians can use. Haphazard DIY repairs could damage your system further, causing its efficiency to drop. Also, you’ll void the warranty since most manufacturers want proof that repairs were done by a professional.
DIY projects are an excellent way to test your skill set, but some jobs—like HVAC installation—are better off in the hands of a professional. Yes, installing an HVAC system costs between $3,500 and $7,000, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing the installation was done correctly by local HVAC contractors.
How to Save Money on HVAC Repairs
As a homeowner, saving a buck here or there is high on your list of priorities. Unfortunately, HVAC repairs can hinder those savings and have you wondering if your money is part of a disappearing act.
Yes, some HVAC repairs can be more expensive than others, but there are ways to save money on those costs, such as:
Buying an HVAC maintenance service contract
Changing your filters regularly
Keeping the area around your HVAC unit debris-free
Replacing unrepairable parts when necessary
FAQs About HVAC Repairs
How much does an HVAC unit replacement cost?
The cost of a new HVAC system is roughly $7,500 but will vary by the type of HVAC unit and the size of your home. If you only need to replace your AC, it can cost between $2,200 and $5,500; replacing your furnace costs $3,200 to $6,000.
How often should I service my HVAC?
Your HVAC manufacturer will give you instructions on how often you should service your system. Have your unit professionally serviced at least once a year when in doubt.
Heat pump systems are different because they provide heating and cooling solutions for your home. In this case, you should have it serviced at least twice a year.
How much does it cost to repair or replace ductwork?
The average cost of replacing your ductwork is around $1,200, with higher prices rounding out to about $4,500. Ideally, you’ll pay between $450 and $2,000, but it depends on factors such as:
How many ducts need replacement
The size of your home
Your location
If you need minor repairs like fixing a leak, adding insulation, or replacing a vent, look to pay roughly $200 to $700.
How long should an HVAC system last?
Your HVAC system should last between 15 and 25 years when properly maintained. To extend your system’s lifespan, it would be best to follow an annual maintenance schedule to catch any problems as they arise. Technicians will diagnose any issues and clean parts of your HVAC prone to gathering dirt and debris.