What AC work costs in Houston
AC work in Houston costs more than in cooler cities because the system runs most of the year. These are typical ranges, not quotes. Your price depends on your house, your system and the part that failed.
Typical Houston prices
| Job | Typical range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| AC tune-up (one visit) | $80–$200 | Coil rinse, drain flush, parts test |
| Capacitor or contactor | $150–$450 | Common cause of a unit that will not start |
| Drain line clearing | $100–$300 | The usual fix for an AC leak |
| Fan or blower motor | $500–$1,500 | Depends on motor type and size |
| Refrigerant leak repair | $500–$2,000 | Find, fix and recharge |
| Evaporator coil replacement | $1,200–$3,500 | Needs refrigerant work and a vacuum |
| Smart thermostat install | $200–$550 | Includes setup |
| Central AC replacement | $3,900–$7,900 | Mostly for lower-tonnage units |
| Full AC and furnace system | $5,000–$12,500 | Common range for a Houston home |
| Heat pump system | $4,200–$12,000 | Cools and heats |
| Duct replacement | $1,000–$5,000 | Depends on the length and attic access |
| City of Houston mechanical permit | 2% of job + $47 | Plus admin fee. Included in our changeout price |
Ranges are for planning only. Your written price comes after we see the job.
What changes the price
- System size in tons and efficiency level
- Single-stage, two-stage or variable-speed
- Attic, closet or ground-level install
- Ductwork condition and any repairs
- Permit and inspection fees
- Season: summer rush pricing can be higher than spring or fall
Ways to save
- Book a tune-up in spring so small problems get fixed before July.
- Change the filter every 1 to 3 months.
- Ask for good, better and best prices, and compare them in writing.
- Join a maintenance plan if you plan to stay in the home for years.
- Get a second opinion on any repair over $1,500 before you decide to replace.
Cost questions
Why does AC cost so much in Houston?
The system runs most of the year, parts wear out sooner, and the climate needs the right size and dehumidifying power. Permits and inspections add cost on changeouts.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace my AC?
Repair is cheaper up front. Replacement makes sense if the unit is old, uses R-22, or the repair is more than a third of the cost of a new one.
Do you offer financing?
Ask about financing when you get your estimate. We show cash prices in writing first.
Are these prices your prices?
No. They are typical Houston ranges from public sources. Prices marked as ours are from our own list.