Fair AC Repair Costs 2026
Regional pricing guide to help you spot overcharges and scams. All prices include parts and labor.
Fair Price Range
What you should expect to pay
Typical Regional Cost
Most common prices nationwide
Scam Warning Price
Get second opinion if quoted this
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Common AC Repairs & Fair Prices
Capacitor Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$200-$400
Typical Cost
$250-$350
Scam Alert Price
$600+
Fair Price Notes: Parts cost $15-$40. Labor is simple (30-60 min). If quoted over $500, get a second opinion.
DIY Possibility: Advanced DIY possible with electrical knowledge. Safety warning: capacitors hold deadly charge even when power is off.
Refrigerant Recharge (R-410A)
Fair Cost Range
$300-$600
Typical Cost
$400-$500
Scam Alert Price
$1,500+
Fair Price Notes: Should include leak detection/repair. Just adding refrigerant without fixing leak is a scam. Price includes finding and fixing the leak.
DIY Possibility: NOT DIY. Requires EPA certification and specialized equipment.
Compressor Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$1,500-$2,500
Typical Cost
$1,800-$2,200
Scam Alert Price
$4,000+
Fair Price Notes: Most expensive single repair. Check warranty first - often covered for 5-10 years. If unit is 10+ years old, consider full replacement instead.
DIY Possibility: Professional only. Requires refrigerant recovery, vacuum pump, brazing equipment.
Evaporator Coil Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$800-$1,600
Typical Cost
$1,000-$1,400
Scam Alert Price
$2,500+
Fair Price Notes: Indoor coil replacement. Often covered under warranty. Get 2-3 quotes if expensive.
DIY Possibility: Not recommended. Requires refrigerant handling and brazing.
Condenser Coil Cleaning
Fair Cost Range
$100-$250
Typical Cost
$150-$200
Scam Alert Price
$500+
Fair Price Notes: Often included in standard maintenance. Simple outdoor coil wash-down.
DIY Possibility: Easy DIY. Garden hose spray from inside-out. Turn off power first.
Drain Line Unclog
Fair Cost Range
$75-$150
Typical Cost
$100-$125
Scam Alert Price
$300+
Fair Price Notes: Very simple repair. Takes 15-30 minutes. Easy DIY with vinegar or wet/dry vac.
DIY Possibility: Easy DIY. Pour vinegar down drain line or use shop vac to suck out clog.
Thermostat Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$150-$300
Typical Cost
$200-$250
Scam Alert Price
$600+
Fair Price Notes: Smart thermostats retail $100-$250. Installation takes 30-60 minutes.
DIY Possibility: Moderate DIY. Most thermostats have simple 4-8 wire installation.
Fan Motor Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$300-$600
Typical Cost
$400-$500
Scam Alert Price
$1,000+
Fair Price Notes: Blower motor (indoor) or condenser fan motor (outdoor). Both similar costs.
DIY Possibility: Advanced DIY possible. Electrical work required.
Contactor Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$150-$300
Typical Cost
$200-$250
Scam Alert Price
$500+
Fair Price Notes: Part costs $15-$40. Simple electrical component. Quick repair (20-30 min).
DIY Possibility: Moderate DIY with electrical knowledge. Turn off power at breaker.
Full System Replacement
Fair Cost Range
$3,500-$7,500
Typical Cost
$5,000-$6,000
Scam Alert Price
$10,000+
Fair Price Notes: Varies by size (tons), SEER rating, and installation complexity. Get 3+ quotes. Higher SEER = higher upfront cost but lower bills.
DIY Possibility: Professional only. Requires permits, refrigerant certification, electrical work.
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Regional Price Variations
Major Cities (NYC, LA, SF, Chicago): Add 15-30% to prices above
Rural Areas: May be 10-20% lower, but fewer technicians available
Southern States (hot climates): More competitive pricing due to high demand
Emergency/After-Hours: Expect 50-100% premium over standard rates
Weekend Service: Typically 25-50% premium over weekday rates
Pricing Red Flags - Get a Second Opinion
- •Pressure to decide immediately without written estimate
- •Quote is 2x higher than prices listed here
- •Technician recommends full replacement for minor issue
- •No itemized breakdown (just a total price)
- •Cash-only payment demand
- •"Today-only" discount that expires in 30 minutes
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