Something else: the general HVAC first aid
Most HVAC calls come down to a handful of causes: a setting, a filter, a breaker, a drain, a capacitor. Rule those out in five minutes and any visit starts from a better place.
What is probably happening
- Something simple that a five-minute check catches: thermostat mode, dead batteries, a filter, a tripped breaker, a pulled disconnect, a full drain pan.
- A part that fails often and costs little: capacitor, contactor, ignitor, flame sensor, float switch.
- Or something that needs gauges and a meter, which is what the visit is for.
Do this in the next five minutes
- Thermostat: right mode (HEAT or COOL), fan on AUTO, setpoint past the room temperature, fresh batteries.
- Filter: replace it if you cannot see light through it.
- Power: the furnace switch is ON, the AC and furnace breakers are not tripped, and the outdoor disconnect is seated. Reset a breaker once only.
- Water: look for water in or around the indoor unit. If there is, the float switch may have shut it down.
- Outside: 2 feet clear around the unit, nothing on top of it, no ice on the copper lines.
- Then call, and describe exactly what it does and does not do. Ask the seven universal questions on this site before you agree to a visit.
Do not
- Do not open the electrical compartments. Capacitors hold a charge with the power off.
- Do not add refrigerant or buy it. It is restricted to EPA certified technicians.
- Do not sign a replacement contract on a diagnostic visit. Get the readings and a second quote.
Who to call
A licensed HVAC technician
Heating, cooling and the refrigerant circuit are one licensed trade in most states, with EPA Section 608 certification for the refrigerant work.
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What it should cost
$100 to $3,000
HVAC repair, national range, averaging $350. Service call fee $100 to $250, labor $100 to $250 per hour, after hours adds $40 to $80 per hour
Source: Angi, HVAC repair cost, updated August 2026. View source
National published range, not a quote for your job. The full cost table for this trade is on the hvac page.
Ask this contractor, on the phone, before anyone comes out
Tap each one as you ask it.
- What is the diagnostic fee, and does it come off the repair?
- Will you write the readings you took on the invoice?
- What is your state license number and your EPA Section 608 certification type?
- Is this the after-hours rate, and what would the same visit cost tomorrow morning?
End the call if
- A replacement quote on the first visit with no diagnostic readings.
- Full payment up front or cash only.
- A suggestion that you borrow from a lender they recommend.