How Much Does Air Conditioning Repair Cost? [2024]

If there's one electrical system you don't want to break down over the summer, it's the air conditioning. Like any piece of machinery, air con needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly, and the cost to service air conditioner units can avoid expensive repairs later.

Whether you want to arrange a service or need someone to fix your air conditioner, this guide will help you to find out:

• How much do air conditioning repairers charge per hour?
• How much does air conditioning repair cost?
• How much does it cost to service an air conditioner in Australia?
• Does my air con repairer need to be licensed?
• How to choose an air conditioning specialist
• Air conditioning maintenance tips

How much do air conditioning repairers charge per hour?

Air conditioning specialists may charge by the hour or by the job. At an hourly rate, expect to pay anywhere from:

• $80 - $110 per hour + GST for domestic air conditioning
• $80 - $140 per hour + GST for commercial air conditioning

The cost to service an air conditioner also depends on:

• The type of service or repairs needed
• How long the job takes
• Whether any replacement parts are required
• Where you live

Air conditioner repair rates can vary locally and should only be taken as a guide. The best way of finding out the cost of your job is to get quotes from at least 3 air conditioning technicians near you.

How much does air conditioning repair cost?

The cost of air conditioning repairs is partly based on the type of system you have. In general, expect to pay around:

• $70 - $130 for ducted air conditioning repairs
• $85 - $160 for split system repairs
• $95 - $180 for gas heating repairs
• $100 - $190 for inverter air conditioning repairs
• $120 - $220 for multi split system repairs
• $140 - $250 for VRV system repairs

Air conditioning repair cost also depends on the nature of the problem. Common air conditioner repairs include:

• Replacing air filters: $70 - $100
• Resetting the thermostat: $108 - $250
• Replacing a circuit board: $120 - $600
• Replacing refrigerant: $160 - $400
• Fixing leaks: $225 - $1,600 (depending on how serious)

If your air conditioning unit can't be repaired, you may have to fork out for a new unit. Depending on what size air conditioner you need, this could cost anywhere from $300 for a small window unit up to $5,500 for a ducted system (plus installation cost).

Read more: How much does air conditioning installation cost?

How much does it cost to service an air conditioner in Australia?

It's recommended to have your air conditioning serviced by a professional at least once a year. You may arrange regular servicing with your air conditioning installer or with another air con specialist.

The cost to service an air conditioner ranges from $75 - $200 for a general tune-up, depending on the system. This cost could help you to save money in the long term by:

• Lowering the risk of air conditioner problems and repairs
• Keeping the unit operating as efficiently as possible
• Extending the life of the unit and its components

Does my air con repairer need to be licensed?

Yes. Anyone who works with air conditioning in Australia and handles refrigerants needs to be licensed in their state and to hold a Refrigerant Handling Licence (RHL).

Other licensed trades such as electricians or plumbers may be able to install air conditioning units, but they may not have specialist training in how the systems work, so it's best to stick to a licensed air con repairer for services and repairs.

How to choose an air conditioning specialist

To make sure you hire the right person for the job, ask your air conditioning specialist questions such as:

• Are you licensed to work on air conditioners?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?
• When can you start work on my job?

The best way of finding out the cost to service and repair air conditioning is to get at least 3 quotes from local air con specialists. This will also give you a sense of what market rates currently are.

Air conditioning maintenance tips

You can save on the cost of air conditioner repairs by keeping your system in good working order with regular maintenance. While a professional service is recommended every year, you can keep your air con clean by

• Wiping down the external unit every few weeks and keeping it clear of leaves. This includes the condenser fins and drain outlet.
• Cleaning the return air filters on the internal unit every few weeks, or weekly if it's exposed to a lot of dust.

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces