Updated on December 13, 2022
AC Repair Prices And Types

The average cost to fix an air conditioner is about $4,000. Generally, most AC repairs cost about $2,500 for small repairs or problems with one or two controls. Common air conditioner problems include changing condensate drain pan sizes, checking the coolant level, replacing belts or hoses, testing the refrigerant level, installing air conditioners, and changing filters. It can be a daunting task to try and do all these repairs yourself.
You should first schedule an appointment with an AC technician to get an estimate of how much it will cost to do your air-conditioning unit repair. This free estimate can then be used in determining what kind of service your unit will require. If you don’t already have an AC technician, find one that you trust by asking friends or family for a recommendation. Also, some companies have free estimates available on their website. When requesting your free online estimate, ask for a phone number and/or website address where you can speak with a technician who can come to your home to perform your air-conditioning unit repair.
Depending on the type of problem, your technician may suggest have the unit checked out by a professional agency. You need to determine if this is an option for you before making your final decision on whether to hire someone to come out. Some common problems that AC technicians check out our heating failure, excessive noise, improper function, over/under running, battery backup issues, etc. Some of these services are complimentary, such as having your air filter replaced. Others are extra that will cost you a certain amount of money.
If you do not know whether your unit requires repair or replacement, you should contact the warranty provider and inquire about their recommendations. If you live in a high-end apartment building or have a costly, top-of-the-line system, it’s best to get the AC repaired immediately because problems often develop over time. Leaks may develop after years of use and only a certified air handler can locate and repair a leak quickly. Your repair may cost more depending on the size of the leak but getting it done quickly and efficiently can save you money in the long run.
The typical AC refrigerant leak detection and repair costs are between two hundred fifty dollars and five hundred dollars depending on the location of the leak. Some larger AC units may cost up to one thousand dollars to repair depending on the location, age, and type of air conditioner. For example, the most expensive air conditioners are the ones used in commercial businesses like restaurants and hotels that use ACs to keep the food cold in the summer and hot in the winter. The cost of the repair is based on the amount of refrigerant (an ammonia gas) used and the size of the leak.
To determine the approximate cost of the air-conditioning service, call the local service provider to obtain an accurate charge. Many companies offer estimates through their websites; you will receive details about the AC and the estimate. If you live in an older, less insulated outdoor unit, the actual repair costs could be greater than if you were having a new, energy-efficient model installed.
Even if you’re having a new unit installed, it’s wise to find out if you can reduce the leak or make other arrangements to lower your monthly costs. Some AC repair professionals offer their customers special deals to get them to lower their initial estimate. These deals may include installation by an experienced professional or the option of having the conditioner serviced on site. While this doesn’t always mean a discount on the actual bill, you could pay less per month since the service company knows the system better and can probably locate the source of the problem more quickly. In addition, most companies that specialize in residential AC installation can also perform routine maintenance on the unit at no additional cost.
Since AC repair costs do vary depending on the type and make of the unit and the location of the problem, it’s wise to contact several companies to get an estimate for the total cost. It can also be helpful to find a professional who can evaluate the condition of your existing system and determine whether it needs to be replaced or repaired. They can then give you an accurate estimate based on the data they have regarding the AC and the type of circuit breaker that is used. Replacing an old unit with a modern, more efficient model can be a good way to improve your energy bills and lower your carbon footprint.