What to Do If You Need HVAC Repairs
Last updated November 2025
If you need repairs and you know what’s wrong, ask at least three highly rated outfits for quotes.
Checkbook’s undercover shoppers found dramatic price differences when they asked companies in seven metro areas to quote prices for several straightforward repair jobs. Some companies charge prices that are more than three times higher than their competitors for the same work.
If you don’t know why your system isn’t working, you’ll need someone to diagnose the problem in person. Most companies charge hefty minimum fees for this. Ask companies for their minimum charges and hourly labor rates. Because most repair work is performed on a time-and-materials basis, you can use this information to get a rough idea of which companies are likely to be least expensive.
If the initial repair estimate is no more than a few hundred dollars, you may as well go ahead and do it. If the estimate exceeds $500 or so, consider getting additional quotes.
Other tips for getting good repairs at a reasonable cost:
- When you call, describe problems in as much detail as possible.
- Ask the company to explain how it calculates service charges.
- If the repair will be expensive, have the company provide a written description of needed work and total price before it begins work.
- Get a detailed invoice that includes the date, company name and license number, a description of the issues that precipitated the repair call, parts replaced, charges for labor, and warranty.
- Pay with a credit card. If you are dissatisfied with the work, you can dispute the charge.
