AC Repair Cost: What Homeowners Pay by Problem
Central AC repair typically costs between $171 and $662, with an average around $416, but the exact price depends heavily on which component has failed.
What drives the price
AC repair cost is almost entirely about which part failed, not the brand of the unit. A clogged expansion valve is a cheap fix. A failed compressor is close to the cost of a new system's major component. Getting an accurate diagnosis before agreeing to a repair keeps the bill predictable.
| Repair type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic visit | $75 – $200 |
| Refrigerant recharge | $100 – $500 |
| Refrigerant leak repair | $250 – $1,500 |
| Circuit board replacement | $100 – $600 |
| Fan motor replacement | $100 – $700 |
| Thermostatic expansion valve (TXV) | $100 – $500 |
| Compressor replacement | $800 – $3,000 |
Central vs window units
- Central AC repair ranges from $171 to $662 on average, with a typical bill around $416.
- Window unit repair is generally cheaper than central AC repair because the units are smaller and easier to access.
- Full system replacement becomes the better option once repair costs approach $2,500 or more, especially on units older than ten years.
- Certification and disposal fees for refrigerant work add roughly $40 to $240 on top of the repair itself.
Is your quote reasonable?
For a routine repair like a capacitor swap, refrigerant top off, or fan motor replacement, a bill in the $100 to $700 range is normal. If a technician quotes $2,000 or more, ask specifically whether the compressor is being replaced, since that single part accounts for most of the higher-end estimates. It is reasonable to get a second opinion before authorizing any repair above $1,000 on a unit that is more than eight years old, since the money may be better spent toward a new system.
Last updated: September 2026