AC refrigerant leak repair cost
Fixing an AC refrigerant (Freon) leak costs $200 to $1,500, about $800 on average, including the leak search, repair and recharge. Finding the leak alone costs $100 to $330. Leaks in the coil or compressor cost the most.
Quick answer
$200 – $1,500find, fix and recharge
Most refrigerant leak repairs cost $200 to $1,500. Simple line repairs start near $150; complex coil leaks with a large recharge reach $2,000 before a coil replacement is needed.
Refrigerant leak repair costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Leak detection test | $100 – $330 |
| Leak repair and recharge (typical) | $200 – $1,500 |
| Refrigerant R-410A (installed, per lb) | $50 – $80 |
| Refrigerant R-22 (installed, per lb) | $90 – $150 |
| Evaporator coil replacement (if the coil is leaking) | $2,500 – $4,500 |
Leaks at accessible fittings and line sets are cheapest. Leaks in the evaporator coil or compressor are the most expensive and often lead to replacement.
Water leaks are different (and cheaper)
Water dripping around the indoor unit is usually condensation, not refrigerant.
| Repair | Cost |
|---|---|
| Flush clogged drain line | $75 – $250 |
| Replace drain pan | $200 – $600 |
| Replace condensate pump | $100 – $450 |
| Coil cleaning | $100 – $400 |
| Replace dirty filter (DIY) | $10 – $70 |
Signs of a refrigerant leak
- The AC runs constantly but doesn't cool well
- Ice on the copper lines or indoor coil
- Hissing or bubbling sounds
- You need a recharge every year
Adding refrigerant without fixing the leak is a short-term fix; refrigerant doesn't get used up in a healthy system.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to fix a Freon leak in an AC?
About $200 to $1,500 to find and fix the leak and recharge, with an average near $800.
Is it worth fixing a refrigerant leak?
On a newer system with an accessible leak, yes. If the leak is in the coil of an older AC, replacement is often the better value.
How much does an AC leak test cost?
About $100 to $330 depending on the method (bubble test, electronic detector, dye or nitrogen pressure test).
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.