HVAC repair cost and service call fees
Most HVAC repairs cost $150 to $450, about $293 on average. Expect a $75 to $200 service call or diagnostic fee and labor at $75 to $150 an hour, or $140 to $250 for emergency calls.
Quick answer
$150 – $450typical HVAC repair
Most heating and cooling repairs cost $150 to $450. A diagnosis alone is $75 to $200, while major part replacements reach about $2,900.
Service call fees and labor rates
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Service call / diagnostic fee | $75 – $200 |
| Hourly labor | $75 – $150 |
| Emergency / after-hours hourly rate | $140 – $250 |
| Tune-up | $70 – $200 |
Many companies apply the service call fee to the repair or to the first hour of labor. Members of maintenance plans often get the fee waived.
Common repair prices
| Repair | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| AC capacitor | $100 – $400 |
| Furnace igniter | $100 – $250 |
| Flame sensor | $80 – $250 |
| Thermostat replacement | $140 – $350 |
| Refrigerant recharge | $100 – $600 |
| Control board | $150 – $700 |
| Blower motor | $300 – $2,300 |
| Compressor | $1,300 – $2,800 |
See detailed price lists: AC repair cost and Furnace repair cost.
How to save on HVAC repairs
- Check the basics first: thermostat batteries and settings, breakers, the furnace switch and the filter.
- Ask for a written quote before work starts and confirm whether the part is under warranty.
- Avoid after-hours rates when it's safe to wait until morning.
- For big repairs on old equipment, compare with replacement; see Should you repair or replace your HVAC system?.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an HVAC service call cost?
Typically $75 to $200 for the visit and diagnosis, often credited toward the repair.
How much do HVAC technicians charge per hour?
About $75 to $150 an hour, and $140 to $250 for emergency or after-hours service.
What is the average HVAC repair cost?
About $293, with most repairs between $150 and $450.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.