AC & HVAC Questions from San Antonio Homeowners

Published cost guides (2024–2026) put a typical AC repair at $250–$700, averaging about $375. A capacitor or contactor runs about $100–$450, while a compressor replacement can reach $600–$4,000. These are estimates, not quotes. The price depends on the part, the system and access, so ask for a written, itemized quote. See the cost guide for more.

Most HVAC companies charge a fee to come out and find the problem. Published guides put it at $75–$200 nationally and about $75–$150 in San Antonio. Before the visit, ask whether the fee is credited toward the repair if you hire that company, and what the evening or weekend rate is, which is often two to three times the normal rate.

Published guides put a new 3-ton central AC at roughly $5,000–$12,000 installed. San Antonio guides list $9,000–$12,000 for a 3-ton AC and furnace replaced together at minimum efficiency, and about the same for a 3-ton heat pump with air handler. Size, efficiency, ductwork and attic access all move the price, so get two or three written quotes.

Yes, a replacement system needs a City of San Antonio mechanical permit. The city says trade permits may be obtained by trade contractors licensed by the City or State and registered with the City, and mechanical permits are not on its homeowner list, so the contractor you hire pulls it. CPS Energy also requires the permit number for rebates inside city limits.

Rules vary by city. New Braunfels, Boerne and Universal City require HVAC contractors to register with the city. Live Oak's 2026 FAQ says replacing a condenser, air handler or ducts needs a permit and a final inspection, plus a duct-leakage test when ducts are replaced. In Schertz, Converse, Helotes and Cibolo, check with the city before work starts.

Since January 1, 2025, new residential split AC and heat pump systems must use refrigerant with a global warming potential under 700, such as R-454B or R-32. R-410A is rated 2,088. EPA's May 21, 2026 rule lets systems whose components were all made or imported before 2025 be installed until that stock runs out. Ask each quote which refrigerant it uses.

Yes. EPA says existing R-410A systems can still be repaired, including major parts such as a compressor or condensing unit. Refrigerant should be added only after a leak is found and fixed, and a system must never be topped off with a different refrigerant. R-410A parts and refrigerant may get harder to find over time, which is worth weighing on an older system.

Check the thermostat setting, the breaker and the filter first. If you smell burning or hear grinding, turn the system off at the thermostat and the breaker. You can request a quote any time through the form or by phone. Some San Antonio HVAC companies offer after-hours service, usually at a higher rate, so ask about the after-hours fee before the visit.

Leave the house right away and call 911. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, and CPSC tied about 28% of non-fire CO deaths in 2022 to heating appliances. Do not go back inside until responders say it is safe. Afterward, have a TDLR-licensed HVAC contractor inspect the furnace, and keep CO alarms on every level outside sleeping areas.