Anthony Burden • June 4, 2022

How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?


HVAC Repair and Maintenance Costs at a Glance


  • Average AC repair cost: $125-$459
  • Average furnace repair cost: $125-$355
  • Complete system tune-up: $135-$300


Anyone who has ever dealt with a broken furnace or air conditioner knows how inconvenient it is — and in extreme weather, being without these systems can be dangerous. Like everything else in your home, these critical systems are prone to failure. An HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technician can usually repair the broken component. However, with regular inspections and maintenance, you may be able to avoid such malfunctions in the future.

 

Here's how much you can expect to pay for your HVAC repair or maintenance and what you can do to troubleshoot the system yourself.


How Much Do HVAC Repairs Cost?


Air conditioner repairs typically cost between $125 and $459. If your furnace needs to be repaired, you should budget $125 and $355.

However, there is usually more to the story regarding HVAC repairs, and you may have to pay more for extra parts and services.

 

-------------------------------------------

Can I Do HVAC Repairs Myself?


HVAC repairs are probably best left to the professionals. Maintenance and repair necessitate a high level of technical knowledge. A city permit may also be required to install an HVAC system.


However, you may be able to troubleshoot minor issues before contacting a technician. Here are some simple things to try:

 

  • You may have experienced a simple power outage if your HVAC unit isn't working. If so, check the circuit breakers and flip them back to the right position if they're not already there.
  • If the breakers are in the correct position, switch them off for 10 seconds and then back on again to reset the system.
  • If your thermostat is battery-operated, check and change the batteries.


Past these basic steps, it's best to have your HVAC unit examined and serviced by a trained technician.


Labor Costs for HVAC Repair


HVAC technicians typically charge $75 to $150 per hour for labor. Typically, there is a fee for the service call, and the fee ranges between $75 and $200, and it is typically deducted from your final bill or assumed as the first hour of labor.


Flat Rates and Emergency Services


Some HVAC repair companies charge a flat rate for minor repairs. This could save you money because you'll be protected from additional costs if a job turns out to be more labor-intensive than expected.


Emergency services and calls made after business hours incur the highest labor costs. The cost of emergency services varies according to the problem with your system. According to HVAC Repair Colorado Springs, expect to pay $140 to $210 per hour, and emergency repairs can cost up to $600 per hour. An HVAC technician may charge an additional $40 to $80 per hour for after-hours or weekend calls.

 

 

 

HVAC Maintenance


Periodic maintenance and tune-ups can keep your HVAC systems running smoothly. An HVAC technician can also provide these services.

Here's how much these services cost, according to PickHVAC:


  • Furnace tune-up: $99 to $200
  • Air handler tune-up: $85 to $175
  • Complete system tune-up: $135 to $300
  • An annual service agreement with two tune-ups: $150 to $350


The technician will clean your filter, blow out the dust, and repair any worn-out parts during a tune-up. Most HVAC companies provide an annual service agreement that includes two annual tune-ups. The technician will also replace any damaged blades and refill the AC unit's refrigerant.

-------------------------------------------


Parts and Repairs


HVAC systems are made up of several parts. The individual parts can be repaired or replaced when they break or malfunction. The following are some common HVAC issues and how much they cost to repair:


  • Faulty fuse or breaker: $30 to $300
  • Clogged air filter: $75 to $195
  • Thermostat replacement: $50 to $450
  • Broken blower: $100 to $150
  • Malfunctioning circuit board: $100 to $150
  • Broken expansion valve: $150 to $200
  • Broken capacitor: $200 to $250
  • Freon leak: $200 to $1,500
  • Evaporator coil leak: $250 to $2,000
  • Damaged compressor pump: $1,000 to $2,500


Installing a New HVAC Unit


Sometimes, an HVAC system can't be fixed with replacement parts. You can expect a well-maintained HVAC unit to last 15 years or more, but it will need to be replaced eventually. The cost of installation will depend on whether you need new ductwork. It costs $4,820–$9,350 to switch your old AC unit with a new one, and a new furnace will cost between $400 and $6,000.


New ductwork typically adds $2,000 to $3,000 to the cost of a new HVAC unit, and it costs $2 to $4 per linear foot to repair existing ductwork.


Labor typically accounts for 40% to 50% of the total project cost, but other expenses may arise. A permit may be required to install a new unit. A concrete foundation for the new unit must be poured in some cases.