The cost of an AC repair in Southern California can range anywhere from $119 to $3,000, with an average price of around $300.
However, it’s nearly impossible to predict what you’ll pay for AC system repair until a professional diagnoses the issue.
To help you budget, we’ll break down the key factors that affect AC repair cost, including:
- The Type of Repair You’ll Need
- The Age of the System
- The Status of Your Warranty
- The Company You Hire
- Additional Costs to Consider
- How to Save Money on AC Repairs
Want an Upfront Quote for Your AC Repair?
If you live in or around the Redlands and Inland Empire area, contact our team! We’ll send a licensed, reliable technician to diagnose your system and explain the cost of an AC repair before any work begins. You’ll always get a fair, upfront quote so you can decide how to move forward.
The Type of Repair You’ll Need
How much does an AC repair cost? The more complex the repair, the higher your AC repair cost will be.
For example:
- Simple repairs, like replacing a clogged filter or a faulty thermostat, tend to cost less.
- Complex repairs, such as refrigerant leaks or compressor issues, cost significantly more because they affect multiple system components.
Below is an expanded list of common AC system repair costs:
|
AC Repair |
Estimated Cost |
|
Clogged Filter Replacement |
$50 – $150 |
|
Thermostat Replacement |
$500 – $800 |
|
Refrigerant Leak Repair |
$400 – $2,500 |
|
Capacitor Replacement |
$200 – $400 |
|
Condensing Fan Motor Replacement |
$600 – $800 |
|
Circuit Board Replacement |
$600 – $900 |
|
Expansion Valve Replacement |
$500 – $1000 |
|
Compressor Replacement |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
|
Evaporator Coil Replacement |
$2000 – $3,000 |
If your AC system repair is too high, it might be more cost-effective to replace the system instead of paying for repeated repairs.
The Age of the System
Even a simple AC repair can turn into an expensive bill if your AC system is 15+ years old. The older the unit, the higher the AC repair cost tends to be.
Why? Over time, essential components wear out, and when a technician inspects your system, they may find multiple failing parts that need replacement. This increases the cost of AC repair significantly.
When Should You Replace Instead of Repair?
If your AC requires frequent repairs or the AC system repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a new unit, it’s time to consider replacement. A newer system offers:
- Lower energy bills due to higher efficiency
- Fewer repairs and better performance
- Warranty coverage to protect against future expenses
Consult with a professional to determine if repairing or replacing your AC is the better option.
The Status of Your Warranty
If your AC warranty is still valid, your AC repair cost will typically be much lower.
Most homeowners have two types of AC warranties:
- Manufacturer's Warranty – Covers replacement parts (typically 1-10 years)
- Labor Warranty – Covers repair labor costs (Burgeson’s offers a 1-year labor warranty on new AC installations)
How to Check Your Warranty Status
~ Contact the manufacturer (Lennox, Trane, etc.) to check for parts coverage.
~ Contact the contractor who installed your AC to check your labor warranty.
Expired warranties mean higher repair costs, so investing in routine maintenance can help prevent expensive breakdowns.
The Company You Hire
Not all HVAC companies charge the same for AC system repair costs.
Why Experience Matters
A reputable HVAC company charges slightly more but ensures long-lasting repairs. Hiring an unlicensed contractor may lead to poor workmanship and repeat issues. Here at Burgeson’s we have over 76 years of experience and offer upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Additional Costs to Consider
Sometimes, AC repair costs go beyond just fixing the unit. Here are extra expenses homeowners should be aware of:
Repairing vs. Replacing
If repairs exceed $2,500–$3,000, consider replacing your AC instead. A new energy-efficient unit lowers monthly energy costs and reduces breakdowns.
Ductwork Repair
Damaged air ducts can reduce cooling efficiency, making your AC work harder. The cost can be $500–$2,500, depending on the severity.
Emergency Repair Fees
After-hours repairs (weekends, holidays) cost more than standard service. Expect to pay $150–$500 extra for emergency AC repair.
How to Save Money on AC Repairs
Want to lower your AC repair cost? Here’s how you can save:
Investing In a Maintenance Plan
Regular AC maintenance prevents breakdowns and extends system life.
The Burgeson's Preferred Membership includes:
- Tune-ups to catch issues early
- Exclusive repair discounts for members
- Priority service to avoid long wait times
Learn More About Our HVAC Maintenance Plan Here
Changing Your Filters Regularly
- A dirty air filter makes your AC work harder, leading to higher energy bills and preventable repairs.
- Replace your filter as necessary based on your environment to improve efficiency.
Replacing an Unrepairable Unit
- If multiple parts are failing, replacing the entire AC unit may be cheaper in the long run.
- Upgrading to a newer, high-efficiency model reduces energy costs and improves cooling.
Need an AC Repair? Contact Burgeson’s Today!
If you live in Southern California, specifically the Inland Empire area, Burgeson’s Heating, A/C, Electrical, Solar & Plumbing is ready to help!
We provide:
- Fair, upfront pricing
- Licensed & experienced technicians
- Fast and reliable service with no hidden fees
Call us today at (909) 792-2222 or request your repair online!
