How much does AC drip pan replacement cost?
How much does AC drip pan replacement cost?
$600 – $1,200 average cost to replace primary drip pan
$250 – $600 average cost to replace secondary drip pan
Average AC drip pan replacement cost
AC drip pan replacement costs $600 to $1,200 on average for the primary drain pan or $250 to $600 for the secondary drain pan. The total replacement cost depends on the AC brand, the drain pan material and size, the AC unit's accessibility, and whether the system is still under warranty.
An AC drip pan is also sometimes called a drain pan or condensate pan.
| Pan type | Average replacement cost* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Primary drip pan | $600 – $1,200 |
|
| Secondary drip pan | $250 – $600 |
|
*Including parts and labor
AC drain pan replacement cost factors
Labor makes up a large portion of the cost to replace an AC drain pan, particularly for primary drain pans that are more difficult to access inside the evaporator coil casing. The table below shows a breakdown of the average cost of parts and labor for the project:
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Parts & supplies | $50 – $350 |
| Labor | $200 – $850 |
| Total cost | $250 – $1,200 |
The following factors affect the cost to replace an AC drip pan:
Brand: Premium HVAC brands like Trane and Lennox have higher-priced replacement parts compared to budget brands. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts cost more than aftermarket alternatives but often provide a better fit and greater longevity.
Pan material: Metal drain pans made of galvanized steel or aluminum are more durable but cost more than plastic alternatives. Metal pans resist cracking and last longer, while plastic pans are lighter and easier to install but may need replacement sooner.
Pan size: Larger AC systems require bigger drain pans, which cost more than smaller ones. A 5-ton system's drain pan will be more expensive than a 2-ton unit's pan.
Primary vs. secondary drain pan: Primary drain pans are more labor-intensive and expensive to replace because they're integrated with the evaporator coil and require more extensive disassembly. Secondary drain pans are easier to access, making their replacement less costly.
Accessibility: AC units in cramped spaces, attics, or crawl spaces require more time and effort to access, increasing labor costs. Easy-to-reach indoor units in basements or utility rooms cost less to service.
Warranty status: If the HVAC system is still under warranty, the manufacturer may cover the cost of the new drip pan. However, most AC warranties do not cover labor costs.
Signs your AC drip pan needs to be replaced
Watch for these warning signs of a failing drain pan, which can help you address the problem before it causes water damage or other issues:
Visible cracks or holes in the pan that allow water to leak through
Rust or corrosion on metal pans, particularly around the edges or drain outlet
Standing water around the indoor unit that doesn't drain properly
Musty odors indicating mold or mildew growth from trapped moisture
Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors near the air handler
Warped or sagging pan that no longer maintains the proper drainage slope
If you notice any of these signs, contact an HVAC professional for inspection and potential replacement.
When to repair vs. replace an AC drain pan
Sometimes minor issues can be repaired rather than requiring full drain pan replacement, which can reduce your AC repair costs.
Repair options:
Small cracks can be sealed with appropriate pan sealants.
Small rust spots can be treated and painted on metal pans.
Clogs in the drain outlet can be cleared.
Minor adjustments to pan positioning may prevent overflow.
Replacement is necessary when:
Multiple cracks or large holes exist.
Extensive rust or corrosion is present.
The pan is warped beyond repair.
Repeated repairs haven't solved the problem.
The pan is old and likely to fail again soon.
FAQs about AC drain pan replacement
How much water should be in an AC drip pan?
It's completely normal to see a thin layer of water in your AC drain pan during operation. The evaporator coil naturally produces condensate as it cools warm, humid air. However, this water should drain away quickly through the drain line. The pan should never be completely full of water and should not overflow.
If water accumulates in the pan and doesn't drain, there may be a clog in the drain line or a problem with the pan's slope.
What causes an AC drip pan to overflow?
Several issues can cause an AC drip pan to overflow:
Clogged drain line preventing water from flowing out
Damaged or tilted pan that doesn't slope toward the drain
Frozen evaporator coil causing excessive water production when it thaws
Dirty air filter leading to restricted airflow and ice formation
High humidity levels producing more condensate than the system can handle
Cracked or damaged pan that can't contain the water properly
Where is the drain pan on an AC unit?
Most central air conditioning systems have two drain pans:
Primary drain pan: Located directly beneath the evaporator coil inside the air handler. This pan is often permanently attached or welded to the coil assembly and catches condensate as it drips from the coil.
Secondary drain pan: Positioned below the entire air handler unit as a backup system. This removable pan catches any overflow from the primary pan or leaks from other components.
The exact location varies by system type and installation, but both pans are found in the indoor unit (air handler or furnace) rather than the outdoor condenser unit.
Getting estimates from AC repair companies
Follow these tips to help you choose the best AC repair company near you:
Get quotes from at least three licensed HVAC contractors.
Check the contractors' reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for references from recent customers with similar work.
Confirm the company is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability.
Compare warranty offerings on both parts and labor.
Get written estimates that detail all costs and work to be performed.
Choose a company that offers emergency service in case of urgent repairs.
Questions to ask HVAC repair technicians
Ask HVAC repair technicians these important questions to ensure you hire the right pro for the job:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide a detailed written estimate?
What type of drain pan do you recommend and why?
Is this repair covered under any warranty?
How long will the drain pan replacement take?
What signs should I watch for after the repair?
What maintenance can prevent future problems?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.