Are you wondering how much does AC maintenance costs? If yes, you should check out our guide here on the prices you can expect.
Depending on where you live in the country, your AC system is crucial to keeping you and your family comfortable all year long. But do you know the average HVAC maintenance cost across the country? Knowing what to expect can help you get the best service at the most reasonable price.
AC maintenance cost varies by state and by region. With a clear understanding of the average cost of different services, you will be able to negotiate down to a price that makes sense. To better understand HVAC maintenance costs and services, we’ve compiled this list to help you get a leg up.
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Average AC Maintenance Costs
Depending on your system, you can expect a regular AC maintenance service from $75 to $200. For the entire HVAC system, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, the costs can soar from $150 to $500. Additionally, the HVAC or AC technician could add $50 to $150 for their standard services.
Generally, AC cleanup cost includes cleaning your condenser, checking your system, identifying any necessary maintenance or repairs, tuning and cleaning your evaporator coil, and cleaning your ductwork.
But if you’ve received service before, you know that there are far more than these few services listed above. So let’s take a look at the most common functions you may encounter and the average AC service cost.
AC Tuneup
Depending on your location and the available access to your system, AC tuneup costs can range from $75 to $200. Some additional add-ons you may face are freon recharge, parts that need replacing, and repairs.
Refrigerant Recharge
Some maintenance packages include this service, but if yours doesn’t, you can expect to pay $100-$350 each time you need this done. Fortunately, this only needs to be done if there is a leak or if something needs replacing.
AC System Major Repairs and Replacements
These two are paired together because the costs can vary widely depending on the age of your unit. Any time a technician inspects your unit, they may find troubling issues that you need to address. With an older system, it can sometimes be more fiscally responsible to replace your system rather than repair it long term.
Repairs, on average, range from $75–$1,500, where a unit replacement is usually around $5,500. Some additional costs to consider here are:
- AC installation: $3,500–$7,500
- Compressor replacement: $1,350–$2,300
- Refrigerant leak repair: $225–$1,600
- New fan motor installation: $100–$700
- Coil replacement: $600–$2,000
- Ductwork repair or replacement: $500–$2,000
- Replacing Thermostat: $50–$500
- Duct cleaning: $250–$500
AC Service Call Costs
Calling an HVAC company and having a technician come to your home can cost you around $50, even if they don’t do anything. It’s important to remember that service calls can help keep your system running efficiently since the technician could spot and address small issues before they become big ones.
Before you schedule your service, though, talk with the AC company you choose to see if they offer discounts or packages like:
New Customer
If it’s your first time calling a company, ask for a new customer discount! It could save you anywhere from 20%–50% off your first service.
Install
Before you book your install, ask about service bonuses for a new system. Some companies may offer free or heavily discounted service after you’ve purchased a new system.
Basic Service Packages
Do you feel like you don’t need all the frills in your service? Talk to the company you choose about the basic packages focused solely on checks and inspections.
Advanced Service Packages
Some companies may offer discounts on more significant services during slow times of the year or for those who subscribe to regular check-ins.
HVAC Annual Maintenance
To keep your system functioning all year long, you can schedule annual maintenance service by agreeing to a contracted service constant around $150–$500, which covers your whole system. For those living in regions that require central AC and heating, this is a great way to keep your system running, whatever the weather.
Most contracts include:
- Service fees: $75–$200
- Inspection of the furnace & maintenance: $80–$450
- Replacement of the Air Filter: $10–$50
It’s also important to remember that most new systems should come with a warranty so you wouldn’t need it right away. Still, annual maintenance is usually cheaper than picking services independently.
DIY vs. Professional HVAC Service
When it comes to saving money, it can be tempting to want to work through your maintenance and inspections personally. Some things, like regularly changing your air filter should be done every 30-days. But when it comes to testing your system’s refrigerant, cleaning system lines, inspecting your ductwork, and testing electronic systems, you should always consult a professional.
HVAC systems use strong chemicals and high voltage to keep your home comfortable, and without the right tools, you could harm your system or yourself. Check out this AC maintenance in Riverside, CA, and the surrounding areas to keep your home and family comfortable all year long.
Where to Start
If your system isn’t running optimally, you could lose money each time it kicks on. Efficient systems work to reach your desired temperature and maintain it, whatever the outside temperature may be. Granted, the further the outside and inside temperature are from each other, the harder it will be for your system to keep up, but with proper maintenance, it will run as efficiently as possible.
If you’ve never had your system inspected, that would be the best place to start. Get an understanding of your system’s health and create a baseline from which to build. Then, talk with your HVAC company to create a plan that works for your specific system and don’t agree to anything you can’t afford.
Your AC maintenance cost doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a proper understanding of what you can expect to pay, you can shop around to find the company that fits your budget best. Keep your home dusted and vacuumed to prevent buildup in your system, and make sure you change your filters regularly!
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