How much does TXV valve replacement cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does TXV valve replacement cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does TXV valve replacement cost?

$250 – $850 average cost

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$250 – $850 average cost


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Kristen Cramer
Written by
Kristen Cramer
Edited by
Jennifer Carlson
Fact-checked by
Tara Farmer

Average cost to replace TXV valve

TXV valve replacement costs $250 to $850 on average, including the part and labor. The cost to replace a thermal expansion valve depends on the HVAC system size and accessibility, whether the system requires more refrigerant during the repair, the warranty status, the time of year, and your location.

TXV valve replacement cost - Chart
TXV valve replacement cost - Chart
TXV valve replacement cost
National Average Cost $500
Minimum Cost $190
Maximum Cost $1,300
Average Range $250 to $850

Get free estimates from hvac repair services near you.

TXV replacement cost factors

Thermal expansion valves cost $80 to $400 on average for the part alone, depending on the brand, quality, and HVAC system size.

HVAC technicians charge $75 to $150+ per hour. Replacing a TXV can take 2 to 3 hours because the technician must pump all the refrigerant out of the system before replacing the valve and then refill the refrigerant afterwards.

TXV replacement cost
Factor Average cost
TXV part $80 – $400
Labor $170 – $450
Total cost: $250 – $850

The following factors impact the cost of TXV replacement:

  • HVAC system size: Pumping the refrigerant out of a larger AC unit takes longer, increasing the labor time needed. TXV parts for larger AC units also typically cost more.

  • TXV brand & quality: Brand-name HVAC parts from well-known manufacturers cost more than OEM parts.

  • Accessibility: Labor costs are higher if the HVAC system is in an area that is difficult to access such as an attic or tight crawl space.

  • Refrigerant: TXV replacement usually doesn't require replacing all the refrigerant. The technician removes the refrigerant from the system and then uses that same refrigerant to recharge it after replacing the valve. However, if the TXV failure caused other problems, the technician may need to add more refrigerant. AC refrigerant costs $50 to $150 per pound.

  • Season: HVAC contractors are typically busier during the summer months and may charge higher labor rates due to the extra demand.

  • Warranty status: You'll pay less if your HVAC system is still covered under a manufacturer's warranty. However, HVAC warranties typically cover all or most of the part cost but not the labor cost.

What is a TXV and how does it work?

The thermostatic expansion valve—typically referred to as the TXV— is a vital component of an air conditioning system and regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator coil.

By precisely controlling the amount of cooled liquid refrigerant allowed to enter the coil, the TXV ensures there is exactly enough refrigerant to absorb heat for optimal performance and peak energy efficiency.

A central air conditioning unit installed next to a home's exterior wall
A central air conditioning unit installed next to a home's exterior wall

Signs you should replace your TXV

If you notice any of the signs listed below, your HVAC system's TXV may need replacing. However, many of these symptoms can also be caused by failures in other parts of the system. Have a qualified HVAC technician inspect the system and diagnose the problem.

  • Warm air from the vents

  • Fluctuating air temperatures from the vents

  • System running constantly

  • Frost on the AC unit exterior or coils

  • Short cycling, where the AC cycles on and off quickly and repeatedly

  • Strange noises

TXV valve FAQs

How long does it take to replace a TXV?

Replacing a TXV takes a professional HVAC technician 2 to 3 hours on average, depending on your HVAC system's size and accessibility.

Do you have to drain freon to replace a TXV?

Get free estimates from hvac repair services near you.

The HVAC technician must pump the refrigerant out of the system before replacing the TXV and then refill the system afterwards. However, in most cases, the technician can reuse that same refrigerant to recharge the system.

Getting estimates from HVAC repair companies

Because replacing the TXV requires handling refrigerant, only someone with a Section 608 license from the EPA can legally make the repairs. Follow these tips to find a licensed HVAC repair company near you:

  • Get multiple estimates to compare.

  • Look for a NATE-certified technician with experience repairing air conditioners.

  • Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

  • Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for 5+ years.

  • Ask for a written contract and warranty with a full breakdown of all costs involved.

Questions to ask air conditioning repair contractors

Ask these questions to ensure you hire the best AC repair technician for the job:

  • How long have you been in business?

  • Are you licensed and insured?

  • Do you charge for an estimate? If yes, is that amount applied toward the repair cost if I hire you?

  • Is the replacement valve new, and does it meet the manufacturer’s specifications for quality replacement parts?

  • Does the new part come with a warranty?

  • Do you guarantee your work? What does your warranty policy include?

  • Do you offer an HVAC maintenance plan? How much does it cost?