How much does an AC circuit board cost to replace?

AC circuit board replacement cost

Air conditioning circuit board replacement costs $150 to $700 if the AC unit is not under warranty or $100 to $300 for labor if under warranty. AC control board prices are $50 to $400 on average for the part alone, depending on the brand, type, and model.

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

• An AC circuit board is also called a control board, motherboard, or printed circuit board (PCB).
• Window AC circuit board prices are $50 to $300.

Air conditioner control board prices by brand

Air conditioner control board prices are $50 to $400 on average for the part alone, depending on the brand and model. Parts from popular brands like Carrier, Trane, and York cost more than generic replacement parts. Using a generic part may void the manufacturer's warranty.

Other control board costs for an AC unit

The following factors affect the cost to replace an AC control board:

• Brand name vs. generic – Brand name parts cost more than generic replacement parts.
• AC repair services charge $75 to $150 per hour, plus parts.
• DIY vs. professional install – DIY circuit board replacement saves $100 to $300 on labor.
• New vs. refurbished parts – A second-hand or refurbished circuit board costs less but won't include a parts warranty.
• Warranty – An AC manufacturer's warranty typically covers replacement parts but not labor.

Window AC circuit board prices

Window AC circuit boards prices are $50 to $300, depending on the brand and model. Window AC parts are available from AC part suppliers and are typically installed DIY or by a handyman.

• Locate the part number on the old circuit board or use the name and model number of the window unit to order the correct part.
• Hiring a handyman costs $50 to $80 per hour with minimum charges of $75 to $200.

Split AC circuit board prices

Split AC circuit board prices are $150 to $1,100 installed or $50 to $800 for the part alone. A ductless mini-split AC system typically has multiple indoor circuit boards, resulting in higher replacement costs.

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AC motherboard repair cost

AC motherboard repair costs $200 to $850. Repairing the circuit board requires several hours of labor by a skilled technician in a workshop cleanroom. Replacing the part is usually more cost-effective.

Frequently asked questions

What is the control board for an AC unit?

The control board – also called the circuit board or motherboard – is the brain of an AC unit. The control board receives input from the thermostats and temperature sensors then uses the data to cycle the compressor on and off to maintain the set temperature.

What are signs the control board needs replacing?

Common warning signs the control board needs replacing include:

• Unstable room temperature, especially when the thermostat is working
• Interruptions in the regular event sequence like the ignition not turning on or the blower running after everything else has stopped.
• LED warning lights on the control board flashing an error code

How long does an AC circuit board last?

An AC circuit board lasts 15 years or more, typically as long as the HVAC system itself. The circuit or control board may fail earlier for several reasons:

• A fuse that is dirty or not the correct size
• Aging over time causes the control board to degrade
• Clogged air filters result in an overheating blower motor
• Damage from power surges
• Loose wiring is caused by vibrations over time, which results in a short in the circuit board
• Pests make a home inside the outdoor cabinet and short circuit the wiring

Can I replace an AC motherboard myself?

Replacing an AC motherboard is a simple DIY task. Be sure to order the correct circuit board and follow these instructions:

1. Confirm that replacing the circuit board yourself won't void the AC warranty.
2. Turn off the power to the system.
3. Take a picture of the wiring to reference later on.
4. Ground your hands by dragging them across a metal surface to eliminate static electricity that could damage the new control board.
5. Remove the control board screws, leaving wires attached if possible. If not possible, transfer the wires one at a time to the new board.
6. Attach the new control board using the same screws.
7. Refer to the picture taken earlier to confirm that the board is wired the same as before.
8. Power on the system.

Where is the AC control board?

The AC control board is located where the thermostat wires connect to the cooling system, typically in the air handler.

How much does a heater control board cost?

A furnace control board replacement costs $300 to $650 on average. The furnace control board operates the sequence of the heating cycle. If the control board detects a problem, it shuts the furnace down for safety.

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Finding and hiring an AC service

When hiring an AC repair service near you, be sure to:

• Look for an HVAC contractor that has been in business for more than five years.
• Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Get at least three estimates to compare. Confirm the replacement components are comparable in the estimates.
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Never pay in full upfront. Follow a payment plan and do not make the final payment until fully satisfied.

Questions to ask

• What experience do you have with replacing an AC circuit board?
• Does a manufacturer's warranty cover the part cost?
• Will you use a brand-name or generic part?
• What is and is not included in the estimate?
• Is the new part covered by a warranty? If yes, how long is the warranty, and what does it include?
• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• Will you provide a list of references with contact information?

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