The most common question before any AC repairis: how much is this going to cost? The honest answer is that it depends entirely on what's wrong. A failed capacitor is a quick, affordable fix. A failed compressor is a major repair that may warrant replacing the system entirely. This guide breaks down every common repair with realistic cost ranges so you're not walking in blind.
All prices below are ranges for the Charleston, SC area in 2025. Actual quotes will vary based on your system's brand, age, and the complexity of access.
2025 AC Repair Cost Guide — Charleston, SC
| Repair Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Service / Diagnostic Fee | $75 – $150 |
| Capacitor Replacement | $150 – $300 |
| Contactor Replacement | $100 – $250 |
| Refrigerant Recharge (R-410A) | $150 – $400 |
| Refrigerant Recharge (R-22) | $300 – $700+ |
| Fan Motor Replacement | $200 – $450 |
| Thermostat Replacement | $150 – $400 |
| Condensate Drain Cleaning | $75 – $200 |
| Evaporator Coil Cleaning | $100 – $400 |
| Evaporator Coil Replacement | $600 – $2,000 |
| Compressor Replacement | $800 – $2,800 |
| Full System Replacement | $3,500 – $8,000+ |
What Affects the Final Cost
System age: Older units sometimes require more labor to access components, and parts for discontinued models may be harder to source. A 15-year-old unit will almost always cost more to repair than a 5-year-old one.
Refrigerant type: If your system uses R-22 (Freon), phased out in 2020, expect to pay significantly more for refrigerant. R-22 now costs $50–$150 per pound versus $5–$10 per pound for modern R-410A. This alone can make an older system uneconomical to repair.
Access complexity: Attic air handlers, rooftop units, or systems in tight crawl spaces require more labor time, which increases the total cost.
Time of year: Emergency calls during peak summer heat (June–August) may carry higher rates. Scheduling maintenance in spring typically avoids peak-season pricing.
The Repair vs. Replace Decision
A simple framework: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new system, and your unit is more than 8 years old, replacement is worth serious consideration. A new high-efficiency AC installation in Charleston typically runs $3,500–$8,000 and will reduce your monthly energy bills by 20–40% compared to an aging, struggling system.
We'll always give you an honest recommendation. If your system can be repaired cost-effectively, we'll say so. If replacement makes more financial sense, we'll walk you through the numbers.
Get an upfront quote before any work begins.Our technicians diagnose the problem, give you a flat-rate price, and won't start until you approve it. No surprises on the invoice.