How Much Does AC Capacitor Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

Replacing an AC capacitor costs $250 on average, including the price of the capacitor plus labor to install it. However, the total cost could be as low as $200 or as high as $400, depending on the type of AC capacitor and the complexity of the replacement. AC capacitor replacement costs mostly consist of labor because the capacitor itself rarely exceeds $45. 

AC Capacitor Cost by Unit Type

AC capacitors typically last about 10–20 years. Your AC capacitor replacement cost will depend on the exact type of unit you need. Run, start, and blower capacitors tend to be the least expensive, while dual-run and heat capacitors could cost an extra $20 or more. If you’re unsure what type of capacitor you have, an HVAC technician can help. 

Here’s a breakdown of AC capacitor costs by type:

HVAC Pro Costs

A local HVAC expert will charge between $200 and $400 in labor alone to replace your capacitor. Keep in mind that many professionals charge a flat rate for an AC capacitor replacement, which includes the cost of the capacitor itself. This all-inclusive flat rate will often be between $300 and $600. If the fix is an emergency or requires the contractor to come to your house on a weekend or holiday, you’ll pay an additional fee.

Each HVAC pro sets the rate for replacing an AC capacitor. Some contractors include a diagnostic fee to assess the problem, while others only charge for the labor to replace the part. When contacting pros for quotes, ask them if they charge a diagnostic fee and what that service includes.

Once you hire an HVAC pro near you, their work will consist of:

• Inspecting and diagnosing the AC unit

• Removal and disposal of the old, faulty capacitor

• Installing and testing the new capacitor

Plus, an HVAC technician can point out any other issues they might notice with your AC system. 

Additional AC Capacitor Cost Factors

You’ll pay for the AC capacitor and the labor to install it, but the exact costs will vary based on a few important factors. 

HVAC Location and Accessibility

HVAC technicians may charge extra if the air conditioner unit is in a particularly hard-to-reach spot. This isn’t often a concern for residential homes, but you may encounter extra fees if the pros need to clear away bushes or move aside clutter. Ensure your AC units are clear before a technician visits to avoid extra charges.

Seasonality and Weather Conditions

When the weather warms up during the summer months, many homeowners turn on their AC and discover they have problems. This leads to a higher demand for HVAC technicians, who increase their maintenance and repair rates in response. Call an AC repair company in the spring before demand increases to catch problems early and save on labor.

During heat waves, the demand for HVAC services also spikes as more people experience AC issues. To stay cool during a heat wave, you may need emergency service to restore your cooling system quickly. Emergency repairs often come with additional fees. 

Product Manufacturer or Brand

Some air conditioner brands cost more than others based on quality, materials, and other factors. For example, Trane and Lennox units tend to be most expensive, while Goodman and York are more budget-friendly picks. Capacitors for higher-cost brands will be more expensive as a result.

Air Conditioner Age

If you have an older AC unit, especially an outdated model, it may be more difficult to source a replacement part for it, which can raise prices. It’s also common for a pro to find other issues while replacing the capacitor in an older AC unit.

Home Location

Location tends to affect labor costs, as well as unit costs to a lesser extent due to factors like shipping and availability. Your home’s location will impact component costs like new capacitors, too. Get a few different quotes from contractors in your region to compare fees.

Warranty

Capacitors are relatively affordable and usually don't have their own warranty. However, the manufacturer's warranty for your entire AC unit might cover capacitor replacement. Alternatively, if you have a home warranty that covers your AC unit, it may be less costly to submit a claim than to pay for the replacement yourself.

Additional Repairs 

If your AC capacitor has problems, it won't be long before other parts in your AC unit begin to fail as well. HVAC repairs cost much more when multiple parts must be repaired or replaced. Some common AC repairs include:

• Damaged compressor: $750–$2,000

• Thermostat replacement: $150–$350

• Fan coil replacement: $600–$2,000

• Burnt-out motor: $200–$700

Have your HVAC system inspected regularly and replace a damaged capacitor right away to avoid the higher costs of additional repairs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace an AC Capacitor

If you pride yourself on being handy, you can test an AC capacitor and replace it yourself for around $60 to $100, including the cost of the unit and the tools you’ll need for installation. This can save you $200 to $400 in labor costs, but taking matters into your own hands requires preparation and extreme caution. 

If you DIY without proper HVAC and electrical knowledge, you risk leaving your home without heating or cooling. Plus, you could get seriously injured or electrocuted. The AC capacitor could also leak toxic liquids or burst, potentially causing more serious injury. Contact a local air conditioning repair specialist to save time and eliminate possible risks.

Tips to Save on AC Capacitor Costs

HVAC capacitor replacement costs are relatively inexpensive. Still, there are some ways to minimize costs: 

• Buy the capacitor yourself: If you’re a bit handy, you can buy the replacement capacitor on your own. Just make sure it matches your AC unit’s specifications and have it ready for the technician.

• Keep up with regular maintenance: Scheduling regular check-ups for your AC can catch capacitor issues early, potentially avoiding emergency service charges. 

• Plan for off-season repairs: If you can, try to schedule the replacement during the spring or fall when HVAC services are usually less busy. 

• Join a maintenance plan: Many companies offer HVAC maintenance plans that include regular check-ups and discounted repairs. Joining one of these plans can save you money over time and keep your system running smoothly.

• Get multiple quotes: Get quotes from at least three contractors to find the best rate in your area.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.