It’s the beginning of the year! Although it was a joyful period, you might still struggle financially after the holidays. Additionally, tax season is approaching rapidly.
The worst thing that could happen is that your HVAC system goes down and requires repair. A good furnace filter and consistent maintenance can help ease this situation. To better illustrate, let’s start with how much a repair may cost.
How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?
The HVAC is the heart of your home’s air quality control. We usually take heating and air conditioning for granted, but when it stops working, you’ll notice, especially in summer or winter. Repair can be expensive but is dependent on a couple of variables.
HVAC Unit Type
The first variable that a repair entails is the type of unit your HVAC is. Most units contain two major parts: the heater and the air conditioner.
The simplest type conveniently has everything in one component, like a min-split or packaged system. However, this is only sometimes the case. The heater could be one of many different types, ranging from a boiler, furnace, or heat pump. Repair for these all cost varying amounts, affecting your final total.
Estimated Cost for HVAC Unit by Type:
AC: $100 – $600
Boiler: $400 – $1,000
Furnace: $100 – $1,000
Mini-Split: $300 – $600
Packaged: $400 – $600
If your HVAC is on the fritz, usually repairing is the best option. In some instances, though, repairing the system might cost as much as purchasing a new one. This is generally due to the cost of some system parts, such as the compressor, condenser coils, or evaporator coils. Any one of these could end up costing thousands.
Labor
The second variable affecting the repair cost is the amount you pay for labor. The rates an HVAC contractor charges for repairing your system can fluctuate. Contractors’ rates usually increase in the summer and winter when the system tasks them the most.
Generally, the contractor will charge between $100 – $500 on average, with the hourly rate around $50 to $150 per hour. Emergency calls cost more during extreme weather events like winter storms or heat waves. It’s a good idea to keep all of this in mind to prepare you for impending costs.
Location and Time of Year
The third variable for costs is the location and the time of year. Your location will affect the climate your system deals with daily. For example, if you live in a humid area like Florida or a cold one like New Hampshire – your costs would be higher than if you lived in a middle state such as Tennessee.
Another location-based factor is whether you’re in a rural or urban area. Urban areas deal with city pollution, which can be harsher on your system.
The time of year is a factor that is enhanced by the location. Naturally, summer and winter will be more demanding on the system, but if it’s a summer in Florida – well, you get the point!
Several factors influence the cost of HVAC service, including the type of system, labor costs, location, and time of year. These factors determine how much you can expect to pay for HVAC repair. If your system isn’t properly monitored, it will be very easy to spend thousands of dollars trying to fix it. Now, let’s talk about how you can save money.
How to Save Money on HVAC Repair
Finding out you have to repair your HVAC can be nerve-wracking. As we’ve discovered, it is very pricey. Luckily, there are some ways to help you save.
The first option to save is to do it yourself. This option is few and far between as most HVAC repairs are too advanced for even an accomplished DIYer. For those, we recommend hiring a professional contractor. But if it’s something easy like replacing the thermostat, you can definitely give it a try without any problems.
This next step is important if it’s an advanced problem and you must hire a professional or HVAC company. The second option to save money on your repair is simply to shop around! Going with the first quote that you receive can be a mistake. Researching and comparing prices can save you lots of money.
The third way to save money on your repair is to keep up with HVAC maintenance annually. You can attack this in multiple ways, like with the first two options.
For complex HVAC care, you’ll need to hire a pro to perform preventative preservation. But there are things that you can do yourself to help as well. Monitoring the unit, ensuring it is clear of dust and debris, and regulating your temperature will all help. Regular maintenance will provide daily benefits.
Finally, the best option to help you save money on HVAC repair is also something you can do yourself – consistently change your filters!
Don’t Take The Easy Route!
Now, we know it’s easy to try to cut corners and purchase inexpensive alternatives like a fiberglass filter. You’ll find, however, that investing in a quality pleated filter will be worth it in the long run. You should use anywhere between MERV 8 and MERV 13 for your home. The higher the MERV level, the greater the efficiency.
A well-made air filter will last longer and more effectively protect your HVAC and air ducts. This will allow your system to operate at its best, lessening the wear and tear. It will extend the unit’s lifespan and significantly lower the damage acquired – decreasing the cost of repairs.
Fiberglass filters usually last around a month, whereas a 1-inch pleated filter can be replaced every three months. If you’re having trouble remembering to replace your HVAC filter, then utilizing our Home Filter Club filter subscription program can be an easy way to save. Simply choose Subscribe & Save at checkout, and you’re ready!
Changing Your Home Filters Made Easy!
Saving During a Costly Repair
Having to deal with an HVAC crash is unfortunate. Although it’s not a perfect way to start the year, you can save with a bit of smartness and consistency. Before you start, consider everything. This includes thinking about the type of system you have, the cost involved, your location, and the time of year. These will all affect the cost of repair.
To save, evaluate, and see what tasks you can do yourself. Also, when hiring a professional for advanced issues – shop around to find the best offer. Most importantly, equipping your HVAC system with a high-quality filter and consistently replacing it is the best way to keep the unit running healthy, saving you thousands.
For more information about HVAC, MERV Ratings, and Fiberglass Filters, check out the articles below:
MERV Ratings
Fiberglass Filters
HVAC Maintenance
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