When your AC quits, the first question is always "what's this going to cost me?" Every repair is different, but here's an honest local guide to set your expectations — and help you avoid getting overcharged.
What drives AC repair cost
- The part that failed — a capacitor is inexpensive; a compressor is the priciest.
- Your system's age and brand — older or premium parts can cost more.
- Emergency vs. scheduled — after-hours visits may cost more.
- Warranty status — many systems carry 10-year parts warranties.
Heating or cooling trouble in the NW suburbs?
Get fast, honest service from Thermo Master — available 24/7.
Common repairs, least to most expensive
- Capacitor or contactor — among the most common and affordable (see our capacitor guide).
- Refrigerant leak repair + recharge — varies with the leak; see our refrigerant guide.
- Fan motor — a mid-range repair.
- Compressor — the most expensive; on an older unit, worth comparing to replacement.
How to avoid overpaying
- Get an upfront, flat price before work begins — never an open-ended hourly meter.
- Be wary of pressure to replace the whole system for a small repair.
- Ask for a free second opinion on big-ticket quotes — we offer one.
- Keep up with maintenance — a spring tune-up prevents the costliest breakdowns.
Our promise on pricing
Thermo Master gives you a clear, upfront price after diagnosing the problem — you approve it before we start. No surprises, no gimmicks. We serve Palatine and the northwest suburbs with honest, flat-rate AC repair. Reach out for a diagnosis.