How Much Does It Cost to Fix an Air Conditioner?
Air conditioner repair costs typically range from $150 to $3,500, depending on the issue, the type of AC unit, and how extensive the repair is. Simple electrical or airflow problems are usually inexpensive to fix. Refrigerant issues, motor failures, or major component replacements sit at the high end of the range.
In extreme cases — such as a failed compressor on an older system — repair costs can approach the price of a new unit, which is when replacement may be the better investment.
Cost by AC Repair Type
| AC Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Thermostat Replacement | $150 to $450 |
| Capacitor Replacement | $150 to $400 |
| Refrigerant Leak Detection and Recharge | $200 to $1,500 |
| Fan Motor Replacement | $300 to $700 |
| Blower Motor Replacement | $450 to $1,200 |
| Circuit Board Replacement | $350 to $1,200 |
| Evaporator Coil Repair or Replacement | $600 to $2,000 |
| Condenser Coil Repair | $600 to $1,800 |
| Refrigerant Line Repair | $300 to $1,000 |
| Compressor Replacement | $1,500 to $3,500 |
Compressor and coil repairs are among the most expensive because they involve both costly parts and significant labor.
Cost by AC Type
| AC Type | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Central Air Conditioner | $200 to $1,500 |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $250 to $1,800 |
| Window AC Unit | $100 to $500 |
| Portable AC Unit | $100 to $450 |
| Heat Pump (Cooling Repair) | $250 to $2,000 |
Central air conditioning repair and ductless AC repairs cost more due to system complexity and part pricing. Window and portable units are cheaper to fix but are often replaced instead of repaired if major issues occur.
Cost Per Hour for AC Repair
HVAC labor typically costs $75 to $150 per hour, depending on your location and the contractor’s experience. Most AC repairs take 1 to 3 hours, though complex repairs may take longer.
Many contractors charge a diagnostic or service call fee, usually $75 to $150, which may be credited toward the repair if you move forward.
Cost by AC Brand
Repair costs for top AC brands can vary slightly by brand due to part availability and system design.
| AC Brand | Typical Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Carrier | $200 to $1,800 |
| Trane | $250 to $2,000 |
| Lennox | $250 to $2,200 |
| Goodman | $200 to $1,500 |
| Rheem / Ruud | $200 to $1,700 |
| American Standard | $250 to $2,000 |
Premium brands often cost more to repair due to proprietary parts, while budget-friendly brands tend to have lower repair costs.
What Is the Most Expensive Part of the AC Unit to Fix?
The compressor is usually the most expensive AC component to repair or replace, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,500. Because the compressor is the heart of the system, a failure often signals the end of an older unit’s useful life.
Evaporator and condenser coils are also costly, especially if refrigerant compatibility or system age complicates the repair.
AC Repair Costs by Region and State
AC repair costs vary widely by location due to differences in labor rates, climate demands, and local operating costs. Homes in hotter regions and higher-cost metro areas typically see higher repair prices, even for similar issues.
Regional Averages
- South: $250 to $1,600
- Midwest: $300 to $1,700
- Northeast: $350 to $2,000
- West: $400 to $2,200+
AC Repair Cost by State
| State | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $250 to $1,600 |
| Alaska | $400 to $2,200 |
| Arizona | $300 to $1,900 |
| Arkansas | $250 to $1,600 |
| California | $450 to $2,300 |
| Colorado | $350 to $2,000 |
| Connecticut | $400 to $2,100 |
| Delaware | $350 to $2,000 |
| Florida | $250 to $1,700 |
| Georgia | $300 to $1,700 |
| Hawaii | $500 to $2,500 |
| Idaho | $300 to $1,800 |
| Illinois | $350 to $1,900 |
| Indiana | $300 to $1,700 |
| Iowa | $300 to $1,700 |
| Kansas | $300 to $1,700 |
| Kentucky | $300 to $1,700 |
| Louisiana | $250 to $1,700 |
| Maine | $400 to $2,100 |
| Maryland | $350 to $2,000 |
| Massachusetts | $400 to $2,200 |
| Michigan | $350 to $1,900 |
| Minnesota | $350 to $1,900 |
| Mississippi | $250 to $1,600 |
| Missouri | $300 to $1,700 |
| Montana | $350 to $1,900 |
| Nebraska | $300 to $1,700 |
| Nevada | $350 to $2,000 |
| New Hampshire | $400 to $2,100 |
| New Jersey | $400 to $2,200 |
| New Mexico | $300 to $1,800 |
| New York | $450 to $2,300 |
| North Carolina | $300 to $1,700 |
| North Dakota | $350 to $1,900 |
| Ohio | $300 to $1,800 |
| Oklahoma | $300 to $1,700 |
| Oregon | $400 to $2,100 |
| Pennsylvania | $350 to $2,000 |
| Rhode Island | $400 to $2,200 |
| South Carolina | $300 to $1,700 |
| South Dakota | $350 to $1,900 |
| Tennessee | $300 to $1,700 |
| Texas | $250 to $1,700 |
| Utah | $350 to $1,900 |
| Vermont | $400 to $2,100 |
| Virginia | $350 to $2,000 |
| Washington | $400 to $2,200 |
| West Virginia | $300 to $1,800 |
| Wisconsin | $350 to $1,900 |
| Wyoming | $350 to $1,900 |
Factors That Affect AC Repair Costs
- Type of Repair: Electrical fixes cost less than refrigerant or motor repairs.
- AC System Type: Central and ductless systems cost more to service.
- System Age: Older units may need harder-to-find parts.
- Refrigerant Type: Older refrigerants cost more and may be phased out.
- Labor Rates: Prices vary by region and season.
- Emergency Service: After-hours and weekend calls often cost more.
AC Repair vs. Replacement Costs
AC repair typically costs $150 to $3,500, while replacing a central air conditioner usually costs $5,000 to $12,000+ installed.
Repair often makes sense when:
- The system is under 10 years old
- Repair costs are less than 30% to 40% of replacement cost
- The issue is isolated, such as a capacitor, fan motor, or thermostat
Replacement may be the better option when:
- The compressor fails on an older unit
- The system uses outdated refrigerant
- Repairs are frequent and expensive
- Energy efficiency is significantly reduced
Ways to Save on AC Unit Repair
- Schedule annual maintenance to prevent breakdowns.
- Fix small issues early before they become major repairs.
- Compare quotes from multiple HVAC contractors.
- Ask if the diagnostic fee applies to the repair.
- Check manufacturer warranties on parts.
Next Steps
AC repairs can range from simple fixes to major investments, so understanding costs helps you make confident decisions. Whether you’re dealing with a quick residential AC repair or evaluating replacement, knowing what’s reasonable protects your budget.
Modernize can connect you with trusted local HVAC professionals, help you compare repair quotes, and guide you toward the best solution for your home.
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