How Much Does an AC Capacitor Replacement Cost in 2024?

Average Cost to Replace an AC Capacitor

AC Capacitor Replacement Cost Factors

The cost of replacing an AC capacitor depends on various factors, including the size of the system, labor, unit location, and season. 

Size

Capacitors come in various sizes, measured in microfarads (µF) and volts, to accommodate the various available AC unit sizes. The larger the air conditioning system, the larger the capacitor required because it needs a stronger current to operate. Most capacitors range from 1 µF to 60 µF, with voltage ratings between 250V to 440V. As capacitors increase in size, so does the cost.

Labor

Labor is the most significant cost factor when replacing an AC capacitor. On average, local HVAC contractors charge between $60 and $200 for labor alone. This fee includes inspecting the unit, removing the old capacitor, and installing and testing the new one. They often also include the cost of the capacitor in their fee for an all-inclusive rate of $100 to $250. 

Location

The location of your air conditioner within your home can affect the capacitor replacement cost. Contractors often charge more if the AC is hard to reach or blocked and requires additional time to clear and access the unit.

Season

Technicians are under increased demand during the hottest months of the year when many homeowners experience issues with their air conditioners due to heavy use. Replacing your capacitor during the cooler seasons may incur additional costs because contractors increase their rates or charge emergency fees.

AC Capacitor Replacement Cost by Type

AC systems can contain several types of capacitors. The average cost of the capacitor alone ranges from $8 to $45, depending on the type. Run, start, and blower capacitors are often the least expensive, while dual-run capacitors are on the upper end due to their complex design and role in the system. These capacitors also vary in price depending on your chosen brand, with high-end options costing $60 to $140 more. 

Start Capacitors

Start capacitors typically cost between $9 and $25. They provide the initial jolt of energy needed to start the motor. After the unit turns on, the start capacitor turns off, letting the run capacitor take over.

Run Capacitors

Run capacitors cost between $8 and $30 for parts alone. They work with a start capacitor to ensure the blower motor, condenser fan motor, and compressor continue to work after the air conditioner is turned on. If both the run and start capacitors are faulty, you can expect to pay between $17 and $55. 

Blower Capacitors

Your air conditioner relies on the blower motor to circulate air throughout your home’s duct system. If the blower motor capacitor fails, you’ll pay between $9 and $12 for replacement. These capacitors tend to fail more frequently because your heating system relies on them, resulting in year-round use. 

Dual-Run Capacitors

Some AC systems have a single dual-run capacitor rather than separate start and run capacitors. Due to their complexity and increased power supply, these devices are often the most expensive capacitors to replace, ranging between $15 to $45.

Cost of Other HVAC Capacitor Types

Along with air conditioners, heat pumps and furnaces also contain capacitors. The cost of HVAC capacitor replacement ranges from $15 to $250, depending on the system and type of device you require.

Heat Pumps

Labor and parts for replacing a heat pump capacitor cost between $85 and $250. The capacitor costs between $15 and $25, and labor prices vary depending on your location and system complexity.

Furnaces

Replacing a furnace capacitor costs between $100 and $250 for materials and labor. Furnaces often contain two capacitors, a start and run, which range from $9 to $30 for materials alone. Depending on the brand and model, some furnaces contain a single dual-run capacitor instead, costing between $15 and $45.

Ongoing AC Capacitor Costs

Along with capacitor replacement, it’s important to factor in your HVAC system's ongoing repairs and maintenance costs.

Repairs

If your AC capacitor fails, it can cause your system to break down or short circuit, requiring additional repairs. Depending on the severity of the issue, the average cost of AC repairs ranges from $200 to $600. Common repairs related to a failed HVAC capacitor include a damaged compressor, fan coil replacement, burnt-out motor, and condenser replacement.

It’s essential to catch AC issues quickly to prevent the damage from progressing to other parts of the system. If you notice signs of malfunction, contact a local HVAC technician as soon as possible to keep your HVAC repair costs down. 

Maintenance

Scheduling annual air conditioner maintenance extends the lifespan of your system and ensures everything is working correctly. The cost of HVAC maintenance ranges from $75 to $200 per visit. During this appointment, a technician thoroughly inspects, cleans, and tunes up your AC unit. If they discover the need for repair, the total cost may increase.

Budgeting for an AC Capacitor Replacement

To reduce the cost of AC capacitor replacement, consider the following tips:

• If you know what kind of capacitor your system uses, purchase the part yourself to reduce labor costs.

• Avoid scheduling a replacement during the busy season, when contractors often increase prices.

• Ensure your air conditioner is in an easy-to-reach location without obstructions to avoid additional labor fees.

• Stay up to date with annual maintenance and repairs to reduce the wear of your capacitor.

• Compare prices from local contractors to find a budget-friendly option in your area.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from 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.