Common HVAC Repair Costs by Diagnosis
Thermostat Issues
Typical Cost Range:$125 - $375
Basic thermostat repairs typically take 1-2 hours. New thermostat installation and programming may take up to 3 hours. Parts cost additional, ranging from $25 for basic models to $250+ for smart thermostats.
Blower Motor Problems
Typical Cost Range:$375 - $750
Repairs usually require 3-4 hours of labor. Complete motor replacement can take up to 6 hours. Parts cost additional, typically $200-$600 depending on motor type.
Refrigerant Leaks
Typical Cost Range:$250 - $1,000+
Leak detection and repair typically takes 2-4 hours. Additional costs include refrigerant recharge ($50-$150 per pound) and repair materials.
Capacitor Replacement
Typical Cost Range:$125 - $250
Usually a 1-2 hour job. Parts cost additional, typically $40-$120 for the capacitor itself.
Dirty Coil Service
Typical Cost Range:$250 - $500
Thorough coil cleaning typically takes 2-4 hours. Additional costs may include cleaning solutions and materials.
Circuit Board Issues
Typical Cost Range:$375 - $625
Diagnosis and replacement typically takes 3-5 hours. Circuit boards cost additional, usually $200-$600 depending on model.
Compressor Problems
Typical Cost Range:$1,000 - $2,500
Replacement typically takes 8-12 hours. Parts cost additional, with compressors ranging from $800-$2,000.
Note: All prices are estimates based on our standard rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on the specific situation, parts required, and system complexity. Additional fees may apply for emergency service or after-hours calls.
Common HVAC Diagnostic Repairs
No Heat/No Cooling
Typical Repair Steps:
- Check thermostat settings and batteries
- Inspect circuit breakers and electrical connections
- Test capacitor and contactor functionality
- Check refrigerant levels (for cooling)
- Inspect ignition system and flame sensor (for heating)
- Test blower motor operation
- Replace failed components as needed
Poor Airflow
Typical Repair Steps:
- Inspect and clean air filters
- Check ductwork for leaks or blockages
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils
- Verify blower motor operation
- Test damper functionality
- Seal any duct leaks
- Adjust blower speed if necessary
Strange Noises
Typical Repair Steps:
- Locate source of noise
- Inspect belt tension and condition
- Check for loose components
- Lubricate moving parts
- Tighten mounting hardware
- Replace worn bearings or motors
- Balance fan blades if necessary
System Short Cycling
Typical Repair Steps:
- Check thermostat placement and settings
- Inspect refrigerant levels
- Clean or replace air filters
- Test capacitor and electrical components
- Check for frozen evaporator coil
- Verify proper unit sizing
- Calibrate thermostat if needed
Water Leaks
Typical Repair Steps:
- Locate source of leak
- Clear condensate drain line
- Check condensate pump operation
- Inspect drain pan for damage
- Clean evaporator coil
- Replace damaged components
- Install secondary drain pan if needed
Electrical Issues
Typical Repair Steps:
- Test voltage and amperage
- Inspect all electrical connections
- Check capacitor functionality
- Test contactors and relays
- Replace burnt or damaged wiring
- Verify proper grounding
- Update outdated electrical components
Frozen Coil
Typical Repair Steps:
- Turn off system to allow defrosting
- Check refrigerant levels
- Inspect air filters
- Test blower motor operation
- Clean evaporator coil
- Verify proper airflow
- Repair any refrigerant leaks
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific repairs may vary based on system type, make, and model. Always consult with a licensed HVAC technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Understanding General Diagnosis Types
Physical Examination
A physical examination is a systematic evaluation of the body performed by a healthcare professional. During this hands-on assessment, the provider checks vital signs, examines different body parts and systems, and looks for any abnormal signs or symptoms. This fundamental diagnostic tool helps establish a baseline for your health and can identify potential health concerns before they become serious.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests involve analyzing samples of blood, urine, or other tissues to evaluate your health status. These tests can measure various components like cholesterol levels, blood sugar, hormone levels, and the presence of infections. Lab tests provide objective data that helps healthcare providers make accurate diagnoses and monitor treatment effectiveness.
Imaging Studies
Imaging studies use various technologies to create detailed pictures of your body's internal structures. This includes X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and PET scans. These non-invasive procedures allow healthcare providers to visualize bones, organs, and tissues to identify injuries, diseases, or abnormalities that aren't visible from the outside.
Mental Health Assessment
A mental health assessment evaluates your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. This may include interviews, behavioral observations, and standardized psychological tests. These assessments help identify mental health conditions, determine appropriate treatments, and develop effective care plans for psychological wellness.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing analyzes your DNA to identify changes or mutations in genes that might cause health conditions. This type of diagnosis can determine your risk for certain inherited diseases, guide treatment choices, and help with family planning decisions. It's particularly valuable for understanding hereditary conditions and predispositions to specific diseases.
Neurological Examination
A neurological examination assesses brain, spinal cord, and nerve function. This includes testing reflexes, coordination, mental status, and sensory responses. These examinations help diagnose conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease.
Functional Tests
Functional tests evaluate how well certain body systems are working. Examples include stress tests for heart function, pulmonary function tests for lung capacity, and balance tests for vestibular system assessment. These tests help diagnose conditions by observing how your body performs during specific activities or under certain conditions.
Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopic procedures use specialized instruments to look inside body cavities and organs. This includes colonoscopies, upper endoscopies, and bronchoscopies. These procedures allow direct visualization of internal structures and can help diagnose conditions like cancer, inflammation, or structural abnormalities.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. This procedure is crucial for diagnosing various conditions, particularly cancer. It provides detailed information about cellular structures and can determine if cells are normal, inflammatory, or cancerous.
Diagnostic Procedures
Diagnostic procedures encompass various specialized tests designed to investigate specific symptoms or conditions. These might include allergy testing, sleep studies, or cardiac catheterization. Each procedure is tailored to gather specific information needed for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Common Failure Symptoms: Identifying General Diagnostic Warning Signs
Common HVAC General Diagnoses
Air Filter Issues
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced airflow from vents
- Higher energy bills
- More dust around vents and home
- System running longer than usual
Service Schedule: Replace every 1-3 months depending on usage and environment
Thermostat Problems
Signs of Failure:
- System won't turn on/off
- Incorrect temperature readings
- Display screen blank or flickering
- Short cycling of HVAC system
Service Schedule: Battery replacement yearly; calibration check during bi-annual maintenance
Blower Motor Issues
Signs of Failure:
- Strange noises (squealing, grinding)
- Weak or no airflow
- System overheating
- Higher electric bills
Service Schedule: Inspection and lubrication during bi-annual maintenance
Refrigerant Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Warm air from AC
- Ice formation on refrigerant lines
- Hissing sounds
- Higher utility bills
Service Schedule: Refrigerant levels checked during annual AC maintenance
Heat Exchanger Problems
Signs of Failure:
- Carbon monoxide detector alerts
- Soot around furnace
- Crack or rust visible
- Strange odors when running
Service Schedule: Annual inspection during fall furnace maintenance
Capacitor Issues
Signs of Failure:
- System hard starting
- Humming sound but unit won't start
- System shutting off unexpectedly
- Motor not running at full speed
Service Schedule: Inspection during bi-annual maintenance; typically lasts 10-15 years
Drainage Problems
Signs of Failure:
- Water pooling around unit
- Musty smells
- Water damage near unit
- System shutting off unexpectedly
Service Schedule: Clean condensate line during bi-annual maintenance
Compressor Problems
Signs of Failure:
- Loud noises during operation
- Warm air from AC
- Circuit breaker trips
- Vibrating outdoor unit
Service Schedule: Annual inspection during spring AC maintenance
Ductwork Issues
Signs of Failure:
- Uneven heating/cooling
- High energy bills
- Excessive dust
- Whistling sounds from vents
Service Schedule: Inspection every 3-5 years; cleaning every 5-7 years
Ignition System Problems
Signs of Failure:
- Furnace won't start
- Delayed ignition
- Frequent cycling
- No heat
Service Schedule: Annual inspection during fall furnace maintenance
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
