| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Capacitor replacement: $150–$400; typical AC repair $131–$1,050 |
| Time | Most common repairs take about 1 to 3 hours |
| Who's qualified | Texas TDLR Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) contractor license required |
What should I do today if a rental's AC has stopped?
Call (915) 286-7051 to get a referral to a local pro. Ask whether the pro offers same-day or emergency scheduling, because after-hours emergency AC calls can cost about $225 to $500. Summer demand is high, so expect possible wait times.
What should I check when hiring or switching AC contractors?
Confirm the contractor holds a Texas TDLR ACR license and ask who will pull any permit. El Paso guidance says work should not start until the permit application is submitted and the permit is issued. Ask for a written estimate and the service-call fee before work begins.
What does a typical service call cost for a rental?
Many HVAC companies charge a $75 to $200 service-call fee, often credited toward the repair or covering the first hour of work. Labor commonly runs $75 to $150 per hour. Most HVAC repair visits average about $150 to $450.
When does a repair become a replacement?
A compressor replacement typically costs $1,800 to $2,800, and a full AC replacement with existing ductwork commonly runs $5,000 to $11,000. In El Paso, like-for-like central AC replacement is roughly $4,800 to $9,500. Ask the pro to explain which option makes sense for your units.
What to do next
- Verify the contractor's Texas TDLR Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) license before hiring.
- Ask the pro to confirm in writing who pulls the mechanical permit, since El Paso requires one for HVAC installation and replacement.
- Request a written estimate that lists the service-call fee and any after-hours or emergency rate.
- Ask for proof of liability insurance before the pro starts work on any rental unit.
- Call (915) 286-7051 or email [email protected] for a free quote from an independent, licensed, insured AC repair contractor.
El Paso Air is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.




