How Much Does an AC Capacitor Cost?

Replacing an AC capacitor can cost between $100 and $400. This is one of the most common repairs because capacitors wear out before its time to replace the entire air conditioning system. It’s important to know the signs of needing to replace your AC capacitor to make sure you get it done quickly and avoid damaging your air conditioning system.

Below, we talk about AC capacitor replacements, including:

The AC capacitor is like a battery. It stores electrical energy and sends it to the compressor and fan motors to get them running. When it stops working, your air conditioner might not turn on when it’s supposed to or not run long enough.

Capacitors only last a few years. As a result, they’re one of the most common AC parts to fail and need to be replaced. The part itself is cheap, but it’s an important part of the system as a whole and should be checked during a regular AC tune-up. If your capacitor is no longer doing its job, you should make sure you replace it right away. This keeps your air conditioner from getting damaged, which could cost you more money down the road.

Texas homeowners usually spend between $100 and $400 to replace a bad capacitor. This price range accounts for the differences in cost across various makes and models, as well as how old your system is and what technicians charge for labor.

The capacitor itself only makes up a small part of the cost of the replacement. The part usually only costs $10 to $60. The rest of the price you pay is for labor.

If your system is covered by a warranty, this repair might be free. You may only pay for labor. Or, if your warranty also covers labor, you might pay nothing. The repair is considered minor, and it doesn’t take long to complete. If your capacitor goes out, you should take care of it right away so that your house doesn’t become uncomfortably hot.

The cost of replacing the AC capacitor is based on a few factors, including:

• Type of capacitor (start vs. run)
• System size and performance needs
• Brand or manufacturer specifications
• Ease of access to the outdoor unit
• After-hours or emergency service fees

If your air conditioner takes a specialty part or takes a long time to figure out the problem and complete the repair, it can increase what you pay. Fortunately, a NATE-certified HVAC professional is trained to recognize and fix the problem quickly. This ensures the job is done right the first time, so you don’t have to have a technician come back out.

Your capacitor might need to be replaced if:

• AC won’t turn on or has trouble starting
• Clicking or humming noises from the outdoor unit
• Warm air coming from the vents
• Short or frequent cycling of the system

Any of these signs could mean the capacitor isn’t able to do its job to keep your AC system running the way it should. If you don’t get it fixed right away, the compressor could stop working or cause the entire system to break down. Getting a professional inspection is the best way to determine the problem and get the capacitor replaced quickly.

The NATE-certified technicians at Jon Wayne provide fast, reliable air conditioning maintenance service when you need it most. We have a strong reputation all across Texas for honest, expert HVAC services. We diagnose the problem quickly and make safe, high-quality repairs that last.

We provide upfront AC and heater financing and pricing options without hidden fees, and we back the parts and labor with a transparent warranty. While DIY repairs can be dangerous and ineffective, we can quickly replace your AC capacitor to restore your home's comfort.