How Much to Spend: Cost of AC Repair [Fort Worth Guide]

Indeed, air conditioner repair is expensive. Generally, homeowners pay around $400 per AC repair; Fort Worth’s minimum average, but depending on the severity, it can go anywhere north of $1,000. 

AC Repair Fort Worth: All You Need to Know about AC Repair Cost 

Before jumping into the cost breakdown of an air conditioner repair, you need to know what the AC repair will cover.

Services that are typically included in the AC Repair Package

AC repair package varies from one HVAC service provider to other. Some HVAC repair companies offer full AC maintenance service with the repair. On the flip side, some HVAC companies provide only the repair service. Usually, in Fort Worth, most HVAC repair and maintenance companies offer AC repair with complete maintenance service. This AC maintenance service includes replacing the AC filter, removing the dust from the air conditioner, checking the leaks, etc.

Before hiring an air conditioner repair company, ask what services are included in the AC repair package.

3 Things to Consider Before AC Repair

     1. Air Conditioner Efficiency

Before deciding to repair the air conditioner, you will have to consider its efficiency. To measure the AC efficiency, the industry-standard SEER rating is used. Usually, older ACs have a lower SEER rating. If you purchased the cooling unit 8-10 years ago and the SEER rating was 10 at that time, which has likely dropped by now. This means it is consuming more electricity.

Instead of SEER, modern HVAC systems use SEER2 to highlight their efficiency. And all modern air conditioners usually have a SEER2 rating between 14.3-21. 

According to the new regulation in Fort Worth, all ACs must have a SEER2 rating of more than 14.3. It means your older air conditioner won’t fit this new regulation. So, if you have an air conditioner that has lower energy efficiency and needs repairs, you should replace it with a new one. However, if the energy efficiency is up to the mark and you are happy with the AC performance, you should do the AC repair.

     2. Air Conditioner’s Age

If you purchased your air conditioning unit 10-12 years ago and need repairs, you should not repair it. Instead, you must replace it with a new cooling unit. Usually, the average life expectancy of an AC is about 10-12 years. After that, no matter how you keep the AC, you won’t get the desired performance. Besides, it will start to consume more electricity and will require frequent repairs. However, if your new cooling unit needs repairs, you should repair it ASAP.

     3. AC Repair Frequency

Finally, you will have to consider the frequency of the AC repair as well. If you’re calling the HVAC repair shop frequently, there is a high probability that your AC has bigger issues, and it is advised to replace the unit.

3 Factors that Impact the AC Repair Cost

     1. Types of Repair Components

AC repair cost varies on what type of repair you need. For example, if the AC compressor needs repair, it can cost you more than $1,000. However, if the compressor is severely damaged, it can even cost you half of the price of a new air conditioner. And in the worst-case scenario, it can become irreparable. Here, instead of repairing the AC compressor, you should purchase a new cooling unit.

Again, if the AC thermostat has gone bad, you will have to replace it. Usually, a basic thermostat will cost you around 40 to 50 bucks. But if you want to install a smart thermostat, it can cost you around 200 USD.

Apart from these, AC components such as evaporator coil, circuit board, and capacitor will cost you between 200 to 700 USD. However, for these components, you will have to replace them.

Pro-Tip 

If the AC thermostat needs replacement, you should replace it with a smart thermostat. With this thermostat, you won’t have to control the temperature manually. Besides, you can schedule the temperature settings according to your preference. Moreover, you can save money on cooling bills. A smart thermostat can cost you more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run, and you will be able to enjoy superior comfort.

     2. AC Refrigerant

Refrigerant plays a key role in removing heat from your house. However, due to various reasons, this refrigerant can start leaking from the AC, and when it does, you will have to refill it ASAP. Usually, modern air conditioning units use R410A as the refrigerant. This refrigerant is environmentally friendly and available. On the flip side, older air conditioners use R22 as the refrigerant. Recently, the EPA has banned the use of R22 in the HVAC. As a result, if your AC uses R22 and needs refilling, you will have difficulty finding the refrigerant. Moreover, the refilling cost will be 2x/3x higher than usual.

Usually, R410A refrigerant costs around $50-$60. On the flip side, for the same amount, R22 will cost you $150 in the black market. So, if your air conditioner uses R22 as refrigerant, it is advised that you replace your cooling unit with a modern one.

     3. AC Repair Package

The HVAC repair package varies from one company to other. Some HVAC service companies provide additional AC maintenance with the repair, and others don’t. HVAC repair providers that offer maintenance with the repair will charge you more than the company that doesn’t provide maintenance. So, before selecting the AC repair package, compare the packages from several HVAC service providers. However, when you need AC repair, it is recommended that you do the AC maintenance as well. For AC repair Fort Worth Texas has some of the best AC repair technicians. They are well-versed in the HVAC components and best practices.