How much does TXV valve replacement cost?
How much does TXV valve replacement cost?
$250 – $850 average cost
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.
| National Average Cost | $500 |
| Minimum Cost | $190 |
| Maximum Cost | $1,300 |
| Average Range | $250 to $850 |
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.
| 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.
Sometimes, people refer to the TXV as a thermal expansion valve or TEV.
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
Contact an HVAC company as soon as you notice a problem. Running the unit with a faulty TXV can burn out the compressor, resulting in even more costly repairs.
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?
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?
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.