How Much Does an AC Contactor Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

Cost of the Replacement Part

Based on the price of parts alone, AC contactors are one of the most affordable HVAC components to replace. You can purchase a new contactor from a hardware store or online retailer for $15 to $70. There are a few different varieties (for example, single-pole versus double-pole), so if you buy your own, it’s important to choose one that matches your current contactor.

HVAC Pro Costs

Labor will account for a majority of the cost to replace a contactor on an AC unit. For an HVAC professional, installing a new contactor is a routine service that should only take a few minutes. You can expect to spend between $100 and $250 on labor, depending on your location and the time of year. 

Your labor costs will be on the pricier end of that range if you live in an area with a high cost of living (like New York or San Francisco). Similarly, you’ll pay more for labor if you hire an HVAC pro during the summer, which is the busiest—and most expensive—season for HVAC repairs.

Additional Cost Factors

Parts and labor are the primary expenses when replacing an AC contactor, but there are a few other variables that can impact the overall price of the project.

Warranties

If your AC is still under the manufacturer’s warranty, it might cover the cost of replacing the contactor. In that case, you’d likely just need to pay for labor, as you can see below.

Accessibility

An HVAC professional shouldn’t have much trouble accessing your AC contactor. But if your unit is in a hard-to-reach spot or covered by bushes, the pro may need to put in more effort to get to it. This could potentially increase your labor costs.

Additional Repairs or Upgrades

Sometimes, a contactor will wear out simply due to age or a lack of proper AC maintenance. If either of these things is to blame for your contactor failure, you could soon experience other HVAC issues as well. Common AC repairs include: 

• Capacitor replacement costs: $100–$250 

• Compressor replacement costs: $800–$2,300

• Condenser replacement costs: $1,050–$5,000

• Fan motor replacement costs: $100–$700

• Drip pan replacement costs: $200–$1,000

• AC replacement costs: $3,900–$8,000

DIY AC Contactor Replacement vs. Hiring a Pro

If you’re fairly handy and ready to roll up your sleeves, you can save money on this project by replacing the AC contactor yourself. Plus, if you already have basic tools at home (including a screwdriver), your only expense will be the replacement contactor, which costs between $10 and $70.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind before you attempt this DIY. For starters, this project involves working with electricity. If you don’t follow the proper precautions (including shutting off the breaker before you begin), you run the risk of electrical shock or fire. 

You should also keep in mind that tackling certain HVAC work yourself—instead of hiring a licensed AC installer near you—can void your manufacturer’s warranty. If your system is still under warranty, bring in an expert for this job. You’ll pay between $100 and $250 for labor, but the warranty will likely cover the cost of the replacement part. It’s more expensive than doing it yourself, but it’s worth keeping your warranty intact.

AC Contactor Replacement vs. Repair

Since AC contactors are inexpensive and easy to install, trying to repair a faulty one isn’t worth your time or money. If yours fails, you’re better off replacing it with a new one.

There’s one slight exception: Sometimes, dirt and debris can collect on the contactor and cause it to malfunction. If that’s the case, it might just need a good clean to start working again. Your HVAC pro can do this for you during a service appointment.

How to Save Money When Replacing an AC Contactor

Even though replacing an AC contactor is one of the more affordable HVAC projects, you may still be looking for ways to minimize costs. These tips can help: 

• Buy the replacement part yourself: AC contactors are readily available online and through hardware stores. You could save a bit of money by purchasing your own and having it ready for the technician to install. Just make sure the new one matches the current model’s voltage, number of poles, and other specifications.

• Bundle multiple services: If your HVAC system has other issues (aside from the contactor), ask the pro to check them out during their visit. Tackling multiple projects at once could reduce future labor costs.

• Shop around: Get quotes from at least three local contractors. Review the details of each quote (including price and project timeline), as well as each company's customer testimonials and reviews.

Does Replacing an AC Contactor Increase Home Value?

If you plan on selling soon, installing a new contactor is an affordable project that can deliver an excellent return on investment (ROI). Here’s why.

Without a functioning contactor, your AC won’t run properly. By replacing your faulty contactor, you can get your HVAC system back in good condition—which can earn you major points in the eyes of prospective buyers and help your home sell for more money.

Something else to consider: If your HVAC system needs other upgrades, you might consider replacing the entire system. Installing a new HVAC has an ROI of about 30% and can bump up your home’s value by 5% to 7%.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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