How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?

How Much Does the Average HVAC Repair Cost?

Most HVAC repairs cost between $250 and $900, with the average homeowner paying around $450 to $650 for a single service visit and repair. Minor fixes like replacing a thermostat or sensor can cost under $200, while major component failures — such as a compressor or blower motor — can exceed $1,500.

How much you’ll pay for an HVAC repair depends on the system (furnace, AC, radiator, boiler), what failed (sensor vs. compressor), ease of access, and whether parts are in stock. Diagnosis fees are typically credited toward the repair. The table below shows typical repair ranges by system type so you can quickly benchmark quotes.

HVAC Repair Costs Vary by ZIP Code

Labor rates, peak-season demand, and part availability can shift HVAC pricing significantly. The same repair can cost more during the first heat wave or cold snap — especially if it requires after-hours service or a special-order part.

Get personalized pricing based on your ZIP code and system type.

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Heater Repair Costs

Below are typical ranges. The final price depends on the part, access, and brand.

• Furnace: Expect to pay $150 to $900 for common repairs like igniters, flame sensors, control boards, blower motors, and limit switches.
• Radiator: You’ll pay around $150 to $700 for fixes like air bleeding, valve replacement, and leak repair. Electric radiators are usually on the lower end.
• Boiler: Costs typically average $200 to $1,800 for common repairs: circulator pumps, expansion tanks, zone valves, and control boards.

Heater Tune Up Cost

A seasonal heater tune up typically runs from $90 to $200. Expect safety checks, cleaning, filter review, and performance testing.

Home AC Repair Costs

Whether you have central air, a ductless system, or room units, costs vary by part and refrigerant type.

• Central AC: $200 to $1,500
• Heat Pump: $150 to $650
• Ductless Mini Split: $200 to $1,600
• Evaporative Cooler: $100 to $400
• Portable or Window Unit: $80 to $300
  • We typically recommend replacement for window and portable AC units as it’s more cost-effective.

AC Tune Up Cost

A standard AC tune up generally costs $90 to $200, including coil rinse, electrical checks, refrigerant performance check, and thermostat calibration.

More HVAC Repair Costs

HVAC Repair Cost Per Hour

Most HVAC companies charge $75 to $150 per hour for labor, with a $75 to $150 diagnostic fee that may be applied to the repair. After-hours rates can add $50 to $150.

HVAC Repair Cost Per Square Foot

Repairs are not usually priced by size, but for budgeting, older homes commonly average $0.25 to $0.60 per square foot per year for routine maintenance and minor fixes.

HVAC Yearly Maintenance Cost

A single maintenance visit is usually $90 to $200. A maintenance plan covering two seasonal visits often runs from $180 to $450 per year, sometimes with priority service and parts discounts.

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What Is the Most Expensive Part of an HVAC System?

Compressors, coils, blower motors, and control boards tend to cost the most. See the table below for a breakdown of HVAC repair costs by part.

If your quote includes a compressor, coil, or ECM blower motor, it’s worth comparing options — these repairs can approach replacement territory on older systems.

*Older refrigerants or extensive leaks can raise costs.

What Makes Up HVAC Repair Costs?

HVAC repair bills are made up of more than just the replacement part. Most service visits include a diagnostic fee, labor, and the cost of components — with pricing increasing for major parts or emergency calls. The table below breaks down what typically contributes to your total repair cost so you can better evaluate quotes and understand where your money is going.

Look for itemized estimates that separate diagnosis, labor, parts, and any emergency fees.

Pro Tip: If your system is 12+ years old and the repair involves a compressor, coil, or blower motor, compare replacement quotes before approving the work — especially if you’ve had other repairs in the last 24 months.

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Factors Influencing HVAC Repair Cost

• Season and Response Time: Peak-season and emergency calls cost more.
• System Age and Brand: Older or premium systems may have pricier parts.
• Accessibility: Attics, crawl spaces, or roof units add labor time.
• Part Availability: Special-order components increase time and cost.
• Maintenance History: Dirty coils and clogged filters strain parts and drive failures.
• Electrical or Venting Issues: Code updates or safety fixes can add work.

Do HVAC Brands Affect Repair Costs?

Yes — the brand of your HVAC system can influence both repair pricing and part availability. Some brands use proprietary components or specialized parts that may cost more to replace or take longer to source. Others share components across product lines, which can make repairs more predictable.

Premium brands may have higher part costs, while budget-friendly brands often have lower upfront parts pricing but may require more frequent repairs over time. In many cases, warranty coverage also depends on brand registration and installation quality.

If you’re researching long-term reliability or comparing by manufacturer, explore our guides to the best HVAC brands:

• Best Air Conditioner Brands
• Best Heat Pump Brands
• Best Furnace Brands
• Best Boiler Brands
• Best Radiator Brands

Understanding your system’s brand can help you evaluate whether a repair quote is reasonable — or whether replacement might be the smarter long-term investment.

Repair or Replace: What Is the $5000 Rule for HVAC?

The “$5,000 rule” is a quick check to help you decide whether to repair or replace your HVAC system:

• Multiply your system’s age by the quoted repair cost.
• If the number is over 5,000, replacement often makes more sense from a cost and reliability standpoint.
• If it is under 5,000, a repair may be the better value — especially if the system is well-maintained and parts are still supported.

Example: A 12-year-old AC with a $600 repair → 12 × 600 = 7,200. That points toward considering replacement, particularly if the system uses an older refrigerant, has rising bills, or needs frequent service.

When Does HVAC Repair Stop Making Financial Sense?

If:

• Your system is 10 to 15+ years old
• The repair exceeds $800 to $1,200
• Major components like a compressor or coil have failed
• You’ve had multiple service calls in the last 2 years
• The system uses outdated refrigerant

…replacement may be the more reliable long-term value — especially during peak season.

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High-ticket repairs (compressor, coil, ECM blower motor) can approach 40% to 60% of a new system’s cost.

New systems offer:

• Lower energy bills
• Warranty protection
• Fewer emergency breakdowns
• Improved indoor comfort

Conclusion: Get Help From a Vetted HVAC Pro

Clear, upfront pricing and the right fix start with a qualified technician. Finding the right HVAC pro is of the utmost importance to keep your home comfortable year-round. Tap or click the button below to see pre-vetted, local HVAC pros.

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