I have a CLJ42-1a that is blowing hot air. I think it is the start capacitor. How much should this cost to replace?
I want to make sure the AC guy tomorrow is not going to rob me.
That answer cannot be honestly answered by anyone. Due to the change in rates from one area to the next, its hard to tell. Plus, your tech will either be on one of three scales. A flat rate, an hourly rate, or a performance rate.
Flat rate is most common in residential HVAC. Its a flat rate book that has the prices for everything. All the tech does is look up the cost of the part he used and thats what you get charged. Typically, parts already have mark-up, labor, tax, and insurance figured into the price.
Hourly rate is more common in commercial work. That is where the parts only have a small mark-up, but you pay for labor at an hourly rate. So the bill could be lower if they are in and out quick or extremely high if they move slow.
Performance rate is where the tech receives a percentage of the bill he bills out. Performance rate techs are known for selling parts that are not necessarily needed if they are tight on sales that quarter. Its easy to spot a performance tech that needs the cash. They will approach you with a laundry list of problems and parts. Once you give the go ahead, that list is installed in a flash and they are out the door.
Be prepared to pay a diagnostic fee. This fee typically ranges anywhere from $50 to $150. On top of that, be prepared to pay for the part itself.
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