How Much Does It Cost to Fix AC?

As a homeowner, you’ve likely dealt with air conditioning repair costs. This is especially the case if you’ve been in your home for a while and made it through some hot summers. But after time goes by, you start to wonder whether the AC repair cost is the same as a replacement cost.  

So, how much does it cost to fix AC in your house? And is it worth fixing your AC instead of replacing it?

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your AC Fixed?

Air conditioning systems are comprised of many parts, so there’s much that can go wrong. For example, if your AC unit is leaking refrigerant, this is a simple problem to fix. Additionally, it’s fairly common and easy to look out for.  

One of the main indicators that your refrigerant is leaking might be pooling water. However, you could also notice an ice buildup on the refrigerant lines. Repairing these refrigerant lines are routine and a low average cost is around $250.  

There may be AC repair costs that are too high to consider, making it more sensible to replace your AC unit entirely. One such item is a compressor, which is the most expensive replacement part. 

The size of the home and the amount of energy used impacts the size of the compressor. Therefore, if you need a powerful AC system, then a compressor is going to cost more to repair.  

The cost to repair a compressor is quite high because it’s one of the most crucial components of an air conditioner. In many instances, it will cost more than the cost to replace the AC entirely. And this brings up an interesting point. When does it make sense to replace an AC versus repairing it?

Is It Worth the AC Repair Cost?

Over time, air conditioning units will run their course. This is the nature of household appliances. But how do you know when the time has come to replace instead of repair? There are some factors to keep in mind.  

The first might seem a bit obvious. But, if the air conditioning repair cost is higher than a replacement cost, then go with the replacement. If there is enough wrong with your unit that it costs less to buy a new one, then just accept the upgrade. 

But there are less obvious factors to consider as well. For example, if your energy bills continue to increase month after month, then it might be time for a replacement. As air conditioning systems age, their efficiency declines. An inefficient air conditioning unit means it’s working too hard and not providing results.  

Also, the lifespan of an air conditioning system is worth considering. On average, an air conditioning system will last for 15 to 20 years. You can maximize this length of time by taking advantage of regular maintenance, but it won’t last forever.  

If you are reaching this threshold and the AC repair cost is comparable to a replacement, consider a replacement. A new air conditioning unit is going to have fewer repair needs overall. And an older machine is going to continue to have more.

Get an Estimate

Each home is unique, and your air conditioning needs aren’t the same as others. But there are certainly factors we look for when repairing or installing air conditioning systems. Let’s look at your system and see how we can help you and your home.

Get an estimate today and be one step closer to cooler air.