| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $150 to $600 for a short, ground fault, or damaged whip |
| Time | Often same-day for an electrician or HVAC tech; 1 to 2 hours labor typical |
| Who's qualified | Texas requires anyone doing electrical work to be licensed, with limited exemptions |
Is it the AC unit or the breaker?
A breaker that trips immediately usually points to a short, ground fault, or damaged wire, which commonly costs about $150 to $600 to repair. If the breaker trips after 10 to 20 minutes of running, a dirty condenser or failing fan motor is a likely cause, with repair around $0 to $700.
What should I do today if my AC keeps tripping?
Turn the AC off at the thermostat and avoid resetting the breaker repeatedly. Ask a licensed electrician or HVAC tech to check the breaker, the wiring, and the disconnect before the next run. A basic diagnostic and single breaker replacement commonly runs about $125 to $300.
What should I check when hiring a pro in Pflugerville?
Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance before work starts. Texas electrical contractors must carry at least $300,000 per occurrence in liability coverage, $600,000 aggregate. Confirm the license is current, since Texas licenses are valid for one year and renewed annually.
Does an HVAC tech or an electrician handle breaker work?
Texas lets licensed air-conditioning and refrigeration contractors make electrical connections for HVAC work, including a disconnect exclusively for the equipment. Breaker and panel wiring beyond that generally requires a licensed electrician. Ask which license covers the specific repair.
What to do next
- Turn off the AC at the thermostat and do not keep resetting the breaker.
- Ask the pro for proof of an active Texas electrical license and liability insurance of at least $300,000 per occurrence.
- Request a quote that separates the diagnostic fee, the breaker part (about $75 to $300 for an AC circuit), and labor.
- Ask the pro to test for a short or ground fault at the disconnect and condenser before replacing anything.
- Call (737) 367-2100 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured electrician.
Austin Volts is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
