Ac Drain Pan Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing an AC drain pan varies depending on the type and material of the pan, the age of the AC unit, the location of the unit, and whether there is a warranty in place. On average, replacing an AC drain pan costs between $200 and $600, but prices can range from $110 to $1,100. If the AC unit is in an attic or basement, the cost will be higher as it will require more labour to access the unit and may involve additional work such as removing the refrigerant and evaporator coil. Some AC units may still be under warranty, which can reduce the cost of labour for the replacement.

The average cost to replace an AC drain pan is $200 to $600

For example, a basic plastic drip pan can cost as little as $30-$50, while a larger 5-foot pan can range from $100 to $150. On the other hand, if the drain pan is located in an attic or difficult-to-access area, the cost of replacement can increase significantly. In some cases, the evaporator coil may need to be removed before replacing the pan, which can add to the overall cost of the repair.

Additionally, the cost of labour should be considered, as HVAC technicians typically charge by the hour. The average hourly rate for labour can range from $75 to $150, and the replacement of an AC drain pan can take several hours to complete.

It is always recommended to consult with a professional HVAC technician to get an accurate estimate for the replacement of an AC drain pan, as the cost can vary depending on the specific circumstances.

The cost depends on the type and material of the pan

The cost of replacing an AC drain pan depends on several factors, including the type of AC unit, the size of the unit, and the material of the pan. Metal drip pans, for instance, are more expensive to replace than plastic ones.

The type of AC unit plays a significant role in the cost of replacement. Window units, for example, typically have simpler drip pans compared to central AC units, making them less costly to replace. The size of the AC unit is another factor, as larger units have larger drip pans, which tend to be more expensive.

Additionally, the material of the drain pan influences the replacement cost. Metal pans, such as those made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminium, are generally more expensive than plastic pans. Metal pans offer advantages like corrosion resistance, especially in environments with salty air or industrial settings.

The location of the AC unit can also impact the cost. For instance, if the unit is in an attic or a small closet, the labour required to access and replace the pan may be higher.

It's worth noting that the evaporator coil is often replaced along with the drain pan, as they are typically integrated. This can significantly increase the overall cost of the replacement.

To summarize, the cost of replacing an AC drain pan can vary from $200 to over $1000, depending on the factors mentioned above.

A clogged AC drain line can cause the drain pan to overflow

The cost of replacing an AC drain pan can range from $200 to $600, depending on the type and material of the pan. This price typically includes the cost of labour and can increase if the unit is located in a difficult-to-access area, such as an attic. In some cases, you may also need to pump the compressor down and remove the evaporator coil, which will add to the overall cost of the replacement.

If you are experiencing issues with your AC drain line, it is recommended to contact a qualified HVAC technician. They will be able to diagnose and fix the issue properly, ensuring the safety and longevity of your AC system.

To prevent clogs and overflows, it is important to regularly maintain your AC drain line. This includes checking for standing water in the drain pan and ensuring that the drainage system is functioning properly. You can also treat your drain lines with bleach or chlorine tablets to prevent the growth of bacteria and the formation of slime and sludge.

By taking proactive measures and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can avoid the costly and damaging consequences of a clogged AC drain line and overflowing drain pan.

A secondary drip pan costs $50-$100 to replace

The cost of replacing a secondary drip pan depends on the type and material. A secondary drip pan costs $50-$100 to replace. This price includes the cost of the pan itself and the labour required to install it.

The drip pan, usually found beneath the air handler or furnace, catches the condensation created during the cooling process. The drain line connected to the bottom of the pan carries the water outside your home.

If the drain line is not checked regularly for clogs and cleaned, it can cause numerous problems. When your drain line clogs, the drain pan fills with water. If the drain pan gets too full, the safety switch will turn off your air conditioner to prevent water damage.

Therefore, if you notice water building up in the drain pan, it is important to have the issue investigated as soon as possible. A drainage repair usually doesn’t cost much.

A primary drip pan costs $1000 to replace

The cost to replace an AC drip pan can vary depending on the type of pan, the complexity of the installation process, and the labour required. While some sources suggest that the cost of replacing a primary drip pan can range from $250 to $575, there are instances where the cost can be as high as $1000. This is likely to be due to the amount of labour required to replace the pan, especially if the evaporator coil needs to be removed first, as well as the potential for other repairs to be carried out at the same time.

For example, if the drip pan is located in an attic, it may be necessary to pump the system down and perform a proper startup, which could cost a minimum of $1200. In another instance, a repair was carried out in a closet, which required the recovery of all refrigerant and the removal of the coil, as well as brazing lines with nitro, pressure testing, vacuuming, and recharging. This particular repair took 8 hours and cost just under $1000.

It is always recommended to seek a second opinion and to get multiple quotes from different companies to ensure you are getting a fair price for the work that needs to be carried out.

Frequently asked questions