Is $1,600 to replace AC capacitor and clean unit a fair price?
Project Details
My AC was running but blowing warm air. The HVAC tech performed the work without discussing the price beforehand and only quoted me $1600 after finishing, which includes a diagnostic fee. He refused to provide an itemized receipt or explain how he arrived at the $1600 total. He also pressured me to sign immediately and discouraged me from consulting trusted sources, even making rude comments about my family member. Based on my research, the fair price for this work, including a diagnostic fee, should be around $700. This was not an emergency call and occurred during normal hours. I'm concerned I'm being scammed. Initially, the tech tried to tell me it would be a minimum of $3,000 to replace the motor because it wasn't running, but I informed him that the safety switch had gone off after I checked the filter in the basement, which made him awkward. He replaced the old dual capacitor, which he said wasn't dead but in rough shape, stating it was a "good idea" and a "cheap $30 part."
Quote Details
The HVAC technician performed the following services on my AC unit: - Replaced the dual capacitor. - Sprayed the AC unit with chemicals (likely for cleaning). - Dropped an algae tablet in the pump. - The quoted cost of $1600 includes a diagnostic fee.
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More Details
Category
HVAC
Price
$1,600
Quote Date
June 27, 2025
Fuel type
Electric
System type
Air conditioner
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