AC tune-up, maintenance, and service costs

AC unit service costs

An AC tune-up costs $70 to $200, depending on the services included. An annual HVAC maintenance plan costs $120 to $360. A home AC service call costs $75 to $200 to diagnose problems, not including repairs or refrigerant. A central air conditioner should be tuned up every year.

• An annual AC tune-up reduces heating and cooling costs, minimizes the need for repairs, and extends the system's life.
• An AC tune-up or maintenance plan does not include repairs, replacement parts, or refrigerant.
• HVAC technicians charge $75 to $150 per hour.

AC tune-up cost

An AC tune-up costs $70 to $200, depending on the system type and age, home size, and the cleaning and inspection services included. The tune-up cost does not include repairs, a full leak detection test, or a refrigerant recharge.

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

Refrigerant recharge

An AC refrigerant recharge costs $100 to $320 for R-410A refrigerant or $180 to $600 for older AC units using R-22 Freon. Annual AC tune-ups and maintenance plans typically do not include a refrigerant refill. Refrigerant only needs recharging if the AC system leaks.

AC leak check cost

An AC leak check costs $100 to $330. Finding and repairing an AC leak costs $200 to $1,500, depending on the location, severity, leak test method, and whether any replacement parts or refrigerant are needed.

AC cleaning cost

AC cleaning costs $100 to $400 on average, depending on the coil type and location. Evaporator coils typically cost more to clean than condenser coils because they are more difficult to access.

AC inspection cost

An HVAC inspection costs $150 to $500, depending on the home size and the system size and type. An HVAC inspection is recommended when buying a new home to confirm the heating and cooling system functions properly and safely.

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Annual AC maintenance cost

HVAC maintenance costs $120 to $360 per year, depending on the system type and services included. Most maintenance plans include:

• Air filter cleaning or replacement
• AC tune-ups twice per year
• Same-day or priority repair service
• Lower rates for emergency service calls
• Discounts of 5% to 15% on repairs or parts

An annual AC maintenance plan is worth the investment if the system is no longer under warranty or if the manufacturer requires yearly service for the warranty to remain valid. Regular maintenance may prevent the need for costly repairs.

Split AC maintenance cost

Ductless mini-split AC maintenance costs $100 to $400 per year, depending on the system size and number of zones. Most mini-split systems require annual service for the manufacturer's warranty to remain valid.

AC service price list

AC repairs cost $125 to $450 on average. Combining multiple repairs in one visit may reduce total costs.

AC service call cost

An AC service call costs $75 to $200 on average. Service call rates cover only the HVAC technician's visit to diagnose the problem and don't include repairs, parts, or refrigerant. Most AC companies apply the service call fee to the repair costs.

Cost to level an AC unit

Leveling an AC unit costs $100 to $200 if the condenser already has a concrete or composite pad beneath it or $200 to $300 if a new pad is required. The condenser must be level to ensure the compressor is properly lubricated and the refrigerant flows evenly through the coils.

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AC check-up cost factors

The following factors impact the cost of an AC check-up:

• AC system size – A tune-up costs more for larger systems with multiple condensers.
• Accessibility – Labor costs increase for AC units in difficult-to-access attics and crawlspaces.
• Maintenance frequency – If the system hasn't been inspected in a few years, a tune-up may cost more because the extra dirt build-up takes longer to clean.
• Season – AC companies may offer discounts during the off-season.
• Home size and ductwork – Larger homes have more extensive ductwork, increasing labor time.
• Repairs needed – Repairs and replacement parts cost extra if the AC technician discovers a problem during the tune-up.

What does an AC tune-up include?

A standard AC tune-up typically includes the following inspection and cleaning procedures, though services vary by company:

• Clean or replace the air filter
• Evaluate the start-up and heating/cooling cycles
• Measure the temperature at the intake and vents
• Check the airflow throughout the system
• Calibrate the thermostat
• Inspect the capacitors, contactors, and electrical wiring
• Check the refrigerant lines and levels
• Inspect and clean the outdoor condenser coil
• Inspect the condenser fan blade and check the balance
• Measure the compressor amperage, volt draw, and wiring
• Flush the condensate drain line
• Clean and vacuum the drain pan
• Examine the indoor evaporator coil
• Inspect the electrical disconnect box
• Inspect all lines and fittings for signs of leakage, oil, or dirt
• Clean and adjust the blower assembly
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Spray ductwork with sanitizing disinfectant

An AC tune-up does not include the following services:

• Evaporator coil cleaning
• Refrigerant recharge or refill
• Leak detection test
• Air duct leak test or cleaning

Frequently asked questions

What is an AC tune-up?

An AC tune-up is a preventative maintenance service to clean the system, change the filters, flush the drain line, and examine the indoor and outdoor components for potential problems before they require costly repairs. A tune-up ensures the AC unit runs at peak efficiency throughout the year.

How often should AC be serviced?

An air conditioner should be serviced at least once per year to ensure the system is clean and running smoothly. Some manufacturers require annual maintenance for the warranty to remain valid. Consider a semi-annual tune-up in the spring and fall for HVAC systems that heat and cool.

What are the signs I need an AC tune-up?

Signs your AC system needs a tune-up include:

• Weak airflow from the vents
• Higher than normal humidity in the home
• Unusual noises coming from the system
• Stale or musty smell from the vents
• Air conditioner runs often but doesn't cool the home
• System cycles on and off frequently
• Increased utility bills

How long does an AC tune-up take?

An AC tune-up takes 1 hour on average, not including time for repairs or adding refrigerant.

Do you tip an AC service repair tech?

Tipping an AC repair tech is optional, but most appreciate the gesture. Standard tipping rates for HVAC technicians are $20 to $25 if their work quality exceeds your expectations.

What happens if an AC is not serviced?

An AC system is more likely to break down if not serviced regularly and may require costly repairs. Not following an annual maintenance plan may also void the manufacturer's warranty.

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Getting AC service quotes

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

• Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies to compare.
• Look for a NATE-certified technician with experience installing and repairing air conditioners.
• Confirm the technician is EPA Section 608 certified to handle refrigerants.
• Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business longer than five years.
• Ask for a checklist of items the AC tech will inspect as part of the tune-up.
• Beware of companies that offer low-cost AC tune-ups. They often charge more than average for repairs or attempt to pressure you into buying a new AC system.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead for work completed.

Questions to ask an HVAC technician

• How long have you been servicing air conditioners?
• Are you NATE certified or ACCA accredited?
• Are you EPA Section 608 certified to handle refrigerants?
• Can you provide a checklist detailing what the AC tune-up includes?
• How long will the service take?
• Do you offer any new customer discounts?
• What does your annual maintenance plan include, and how much does it cost?
• Do you charge a diagnostic or service call fee? If yes, do you apply that fee to the repair cost if I hire you to perform any repairs?
• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
• What does your warranty policy include?
• What is your payment schedule?

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