The average cost of HVAC repair is $350
Homeowners spend an average of $350 on HVAC repairs, with most bills falling between $130 and $2,000.
Your final price depends on the system complexity, the quality of replacement parts, and your location.
HVAC contractors charge $100 to $250 per hour for labor alone.
Professional HVAC maintenance enhances efficiency and can significantly prolong the lifespan of your system.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Most homeowners pay an average of $350 for HVAC repairs, but invoices can range from $100 to $3,000. Your total bill will depend on the type of repair required, local labor rates, and the complexity of your system. Because issues arise at least once a year, it’s wise to set aside a small amount of money for them. Bringing in a licensed HVAC pro keeps the job safe and efficient—and helps you sidestep the bigger, costlier breakdowns that follow delayed repairs.
Labor and parts are the main factors that influence your HVAC repair costs. Here’s a closer look at how these factors affect your total price.
Expect to pay $100 to $250 per hour for labor alone for HVAC repairs. A two-hour job, for example, lands between $200 and $500 before parts. Most local HVAC technicians also charge $100 to $250 for the initial service call. Rates rise for complex systems or after-hours emergencies, and some professionals quote a flat fee that includes labor in the cost of parts.
HVAC component repair prices range from $100 to $3,000, depending on the problem and the size of your unit. Most professionals will attempt to repair an expensive part before recommending a replacement, especially if it's only a few years old.
Component | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Circuit board | $100–$600 |
Fan motor | $100–$700 |
AC installation | $3,800–$7,500 |
Furnace installation | $2,600–$6,200 |
Ductwork | $500–$2,000 |
Compressor | $800–$3,000 |
Coil repair | $600–$2,400 |
HVAC TXV/TEV | $100–$500 |
Repairing an HVAC circuit board costs between $100 and $600, with most jobs requiring replacement. The circuit board controls various functions of your HVAC system. Issues with dirty or incorrect fuses, bad switches, or worn capacitors can cause the circuit board to fail.
Since these parts are often inexpensive, ranging from $50 to $200, it may be tempting to fix them yourself. However, faulty part replacement is one of the most common causes of circuit board failure. Hiring an HVAC professional ensures the repair is done correctly.
Replacing your HVAC fan motor costs between $200 and $700. A condenser fan motor located in your exterior AC unit costs between $200 and $500, while a blower fan motor found inside your furnace or air handler costs between $400 and $700.
These motors operate fans that help circulate conditioned air through your ductwork. If they’re making screeching or banging noises or simply aren’t turning on, they may need repair.
Installing central air costs $3,800 to $7,500, depending on your home’s specifications, size, and the unit you choose.
The cost to replace a furnace ranges from $2,600 to $6,200, depending on your home’s specific needs and your budget. Most units last 10 to 20 years, with yearly maintenance required. If repairs cost 50% or more of a new one, or if it's nearing the end of its lifespan, consider a full replacement.
The cost to replace ductwork ranges from $500 to $2,000. You'll likely need to do this once the existing equipment is 20 to 30 years old. Properly installed ductwork is essential for maintaining efficient airflow throughout your home.
Compressor repair costs $800 to $3,000. The compressor is one of the largest and most important components of your HVAC system, pressurizing the refrigerant and propelling it through the coils. If it breaks down, consider purchasing a new air conditioning unit.
The compressor can wear out over time, especially if it gets dirty. When it fails, you’ll notice a lack of cool air coming through the vents.
Coil replacement costs range from $600 to $2,400. The condenser coil, located in the outdoor unit, releases heat and humidity into the outside air. It wraps around other components and is prone to failure due to the accumulation of dirt and debris.
Replacing an HVAC thermostatic expansion valve (TXV or TEV) costs between $100 and $500. The TXV controls the pressure of the refrigerant as it goes to the evaporator coil. If it gets clogged with oil or moisture, it may stop working. This valve helps regulate the flow of refrigerant, ensuring your system operates efficiently.
Recharging your AC costs between $100 and $500, while repairing refrigerant leaks can cost between $250 and $1,500. Low refrigerant levels can reduce efficiency and cooling capacity.
If you have another type of heater, such as a heat pump, you'll also need to consider repairs and maintenance for that system. Here’s what you can expect repairs to cost.
Heat pump repair costs range from $200 to $2,000. Since this system runs similarly to an air conditioner, you may encounter comparable repair issues.
Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one location to another, either from your home to the outdoors or vice versa. Air-source models are popular alternatives to furnaces in regions with mild winters. Ground-source systems are more expensive, but they can operate in almost any climate.
Almost every homeowner will have to deal with HVAC repairs at some point during their system's lifespan. To keep costs budget-friendly, consider the following tips:
Schedule routine HVAC maintenance to catch issues early on.
Compare quotes from at least three contractors to find the best deal in your area.
If the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of the cost of a new unit, consider replacing your system.
Ask your HVAC contractor about maintenance or repair plans that can help you save.
DIY repairs may seem like a money-saver, but HVAC equipment is intricate and carries significant safety risks. A licensed HVAC pro has the tools and training to get the repair right the first time, sparing you injuries, voided warranties, and repeat fixes that end up costing more.
Ready to get the system back on track? Connect with a trusted HVAC pro and schedule fast, safe repairs.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Pinpointing an HVAC problem often involves several components, heavy equipment, and high-voltage conditions best left to a licensed technician. Instead of guessing, hire a pro who can diagnose the issue and repair it safely. When requesting estimates from HVAC repair companies near you, share detailed notes about the symptoms, ask what the visit covers, and compare at least two or three quotes before making a decision.
With proper upkeep, most HVAC systems last 15 to 25 years. Annual inspections, filter changes, and coil cleanings help ease the strain on key parts and prevent major breakdowns. Staying on a regular maintenance schedule also protects efficiency and indoor air quality, resulting in lower energy bills and fewer unexpected repairs. In short, plan on at least one professional tune-up each year if you want your system to hit that two-decade mark.
Most manufacturers recommend professional service at least once a year, and twice a year if you own a heat pump system that handles both heating and cooling. These tune-ups let a technician test safety controls, check refrigerant levels, and clean components before minor issues snowball into expensive repairs. Sticking to that schedule keeps warranties valid, boosts efficiency, and can extend the system’s lifespan by several years.
Installing a new HVAC system averages $7,500, but the exact figure hinges on the type of equipment you choose and the size of your home. Swapping out just the AC runs roughly $2,200 to $5,500, while a furnace replacement ranges from $3,200 to $6,000. Although that outlay is significant, newer units deliver better performance and energy savings, so you’ll start earning some of the money back on your utility bills.
Expect to spend between $450 and $2,000 to repair existing ductwork, or between $1,200 and $4,500 for a full replacement. More minor fixes—such as patching leaks, adding insulation, or replacing a damaged vent—cost between $200 and $700. Healthy ducts are crucial to proper airflow, so addressing issues promptly helps your HVAC system run efficiently, keeps energy bills in check, and maintains optimal indoor air quality.