Today, I paid $650 to replace a blown capicitor for my central air compressor.
That was $160 for the technician to show up, plus a flat fee of $490 to pay for the part and the install. The whole thing took less than an hour.
Prices are similar for the other HVAC companies around here.
I’d really like to find a competent contractor who will work for time and materials, as I do for other repairs and service whenever I can.
I mean, if I had paid something like $200/hour for labor plus the part it would have been less then half of the $650.
So how do I find someone?
Craigslist has a number of listings for HVAC techs that seem to offer more reasonable prices.
But how do I vet them beyond asking for references, and seeing that they are licensed and insured? Any kinds of training and certification I can ask about?
I admit that the technician who came today as very competent, so I’m paying for that knowledge. But $650 to replace an $80 part seems a bit much.
To put this in perspective, I found an online HVAC training course for about the price I paid for the repair.
You are being too logical I’m afraid. Supply and demand often drives how costs for these services are determined.
Costs for a/c repair/installation are always going to be much higher in summer than in winter. Why? Because they know people will pay high prices for cold air. It’s really that simple.
Ideally, it is best to make A/C repairs during fall and winter when demand and prices are lower. Likewise, if you think your furnace is on its last legs, wait until spring or summer to get it fixed. If you have an unexpected breakdown, shop around a bit more and don’t be afraid to look at contractors in surrounding towns.
That does sound really high. We had a capacitor blow out 2 weeks ago and the repair was 165 in parts, 120 for labor and a $20 trip charge. I was impressed that he made time for us the day I called even though it was 7pm before he showed up. I’ve used this same guy ever since we moved here and I wouldn’t know who to call if he couldn’t help us. He works on his own and I do think that usually results in lower prices than going through a big HVAC company.
We tend to use referrals and recommendations from satisfied customers among folks we know. Property management folks can be a good source of recommendations, if you know any well.
Check Angie’s List. They run a lot of great promotions, and contractors are rated and reviewed, so you can find the best ones. I used Angie’s many time, and had great experience.
Whenever I hear someone talk about great service, I always make a note in my phone for future reference. Like GRIT, the best contracting work I get is from the small one person shops where the owner does the work.
We have a good a/c contractor but it is a big company and unfortunately we are still at the mercy of whatever crew they send out. They will make it right but sometimes it takes a few tries.
When I have non emergency work to be done when I make the appointment I will say that l am willing to wait until they can schedule the most experienced crew to come out.
Unfortunately when your a/c breaks in the summer and you don’t have a relationship with a shop you are not a great position.