When your central air conditioner repair cost looms over your head, what do you do? The truth is, there’s no single answer to “How much is AC repair?” It’s a broad range, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $700 for common, minor repairs. The real price depends on the specific issue, the age of your unit, and your location. This is your ultimate air conditioner repair cost guide.
What’s the Real Cost of Common AC Repairs?
Let’s explore some of the most common AC problems and their associated costs.
My AC Won’t Cool. What’s the Cost to Fix a Refrigerant Leak?
A refrigerant leak is one of the most common reasons for house air conditioners not cooling. This is a tricky one. The technician must first detect where the leak is, then fix it, and finally recharge the system with new refrigerant (also Freon). The cost is for the labor to locate and fix the leak, as well as for the refrigerant, which is priced per pound. In 2025, you will be paying between $300 and over $1,500. The central air conditioner repair cost can vary significantly depending on the type of refrigerant and the size. A small patch is at the lower end, while a large leak with new parts is at the higher end.
Why Won’t My AC Turn On? How Much to Replace a Capacitor?
If your AC unit won’t turn on, or the unit is making an unusual buzzing noise, a bad capacitor is the culprit, or the house air conditioner is not cooling. This is one of the more affordable repairs. The capacitor is a very small piece that gives your AC system’s motors the burst of electricity they need to get going. It is a simple job for a professional, and in Texas, the central air conditioning repair cost is typically $150 to $400.
The Cost to Replace a Broken AC Compressor (It’s a Big One)
Your compressor is the backbone of your AC unit. When your compressor fails, your entire system is essentially useless. This is one of the most expensive repairs you can have. Replacement of a compressor comes with a central air conditioner repair cost of anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more. Because the repair is so expensive, this is often the stage where homeowners start considering whether a full central air conditioner replacement cost might be the wiser long-term investment.
What You’ll Pay to Fix a Blower Motor (No Airflow? This is it.)
If your outside unit is running and you are experiencing no airflow at your vents, the problem is likely with your indoor blower motor. This motor is what blows the cool air through your home. A replacement can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,000. The final central air repair cost depends on the specific motor and labor.
Other Common Fixes: Thermostat, Coils, and Electrical Issues
- Thermostat: A faulty thermostat will make your AC run constantly or never at all. Replace it with a new, simple digital thermostat for $150 to $350. A smart thermostat is one of the expensive central air conditioner repair costs.
- Dirty Coils: If you are getting a bad smell from your air conditioner or your system isn’t cooling as efficiently as it should, dirty coils could be the reason. Expert coil cleaning can cost anything between $200 and $400.
- Electric Issues: A faulty fuse or tripped breaker is an easy fix, but more hazardous electrical problems, such as a problem with the contactor or the wiring, will cost between $200 and $600.
- Drainage Problems: An AC drain repair is necessary if your condensate pan overflows, which can lead to water damage or shut down the entire system. This costs between $100 and $300.
- Reach out to 24SevenAC and let us detect the issue, then fix it in no time!
Why Your AC Repair Bill Might Be Higher (or Lower) in Texas
The central air conditioner repair cost in Texas can be very wide-ranging since it is based on several factors that include the type of repair, the age and efficiency of the unit, and the complexity of the AC repair service.
Location Matters!
Your repair price is influenced significantly by the cost of living and local competition in your local market. In major metropolitan cities like Texas, overhead and labor costs are higher compared to the rural regions of the state.
Is Your AC Old? Your Unit’s Age and Warranty Are Key
An under-warranty unit will be less expensive to fix because the parts can be covered. If your AC is older, parts may be more difficult to obtain, making it more expensive. An older unit has a greater likelihood of having multiple problems, and that increases the total central air conditioner repair cost.
The Cost of an Emergency Call (When Your AC Dies on a Sunday)
If your AC breaks during a weekend, holiday, or at night, you will be assessed an emergency or after-hours service charge. That will add an extra $100 to $250 or more to your bill. Planning and scheduling service when necessary is the best way to avoid these costly surprises.
For affordable HVAC services in Texas, 24SevenAC is the best choice! Contact us for a free quote today!
Should I Repair My AC or Just Buy a New One?
This is the million-dollar question in all homeowners’ minds. Whether to repair or replace is a difficult decision, but there are some basic rules that can guide you.
The “5,000 Rule” Made Simple: How to Know When to Replace
The “5,000 Rule” is a useful guideline for calculating the cost of central air conditioner repair. Take the age of your unit and the cost of the repair estimate and multiply them. If it’s over $5,000, you need to replace the unit. If your 10-year-old AC is going to cost $600 to repair, that’s $6,000. It’s time to replace it. If it’s a 5-year-old unit and costs $500 to repair, that’s $2,500, so a repair is the way to go.
When Repairing Your AC Is the Smartest Choice
If your unit is relatively new (under 10 years), and the repair is a minor, isolated issue like a blown capacitor or clogged drain line, a fix is the cost-saving move. The central air conditioner repair cost for issues like these is a drop in the bucket relative to the cost of a replacement system.
The cost of buying a new system is often offset by the long-term savings on energy bills and the peace of mind of a good AC installation service.
Ready for a Quote? 4 Questions to Ask Any AC Company
Before you hire a professional, ensure you’re receiving a fair and honest central air conditioner repair cost estimate.
Do you provide a written, firm quote?
Always get a written estimate. It should state the parts, labor, and a firm final price. Avoid companies that give loose estimates or “open-ended” prices.
Are your technicians licensed and insured?
This is non-negotiable. Licensed technicians are trained to do the job correctly and safely. Insurance protects you from liability if an employee is injured on your property.
What warranty do you offer on parts and labor?
A good company stands by its work. Ask about the warranty on new parts and labor. A good warranty gives you a feeling of peace of mind.
Can I see your reviews from local homeowners?
Check the online reviews on Google, Yelp, and Angi. This will give you an idea of the company’s reputation, customer service, and reliability.
24SevenAC: Your Best Local AC Expert in Texas
When you’re facing a broken Texas AC or if your AC is running constantly, you need someone you can trust right in your neighborhood. At 24SevenAC, we pride ourselves on transparent central air conditioner repair cost pricing, skilled technicians, and outstanding customer service. We understand the urgency of a broken AC and are committed to getting your home cool and comfortable as quickly as possible.
