HVAC contractors in
San Antonio, Texas.

What's the actual cost to replace an AC unit in San Antonio?

A standard 3-5 ton residential AC unit replacement runs $4,500–$8,500 installed, including removal of old unit, new refrigerant lines, electrical work, and startup. Factors driving cost: unit efficiency rating (SEER14 vs. SEER16+), ductwork modifications needed, and accessibility. Labor is roughly 40% of total cost. High-efficiency units and variable-speed compressors add $1,500–$2,500. Source: local San Antonio contractor surveys and HVAC industry data (Air Conditioning Contractors of America). Budget additional $500–$1,000 if ductwork sealing or insulation is needed.

Do I need a license to do HVAC work in Texas?

Yes. Texas requires a Refrigeration Technician or Air Conditioning Contractor license from the State Board of Plumbing Examiners (SBPE) to legally perform HVAC work. You must have 4 years of documented hands-on experience, pass the EPA Section 608 certification exam (mandatory for handling refrigerant), and pass the SBPE-administered license exam. Apprentices can work under a licensed supervisor without their own license. Unlicensed work exposes you to fines, job loss, and liability. Source: Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, www.sbpe.texas.gov.

What permits do I need for HVAC work in San Antonio?

All new installations, replacements, and major repairs require a City of San Antonio building permit before work begins. Permit cost ranges $150–$400 depending on system scope and complexity. You must submit a plan or specification sheet; the city reviews for code compliance (2015 IECC for residential, ASHRAE 90.1 for commercial). Inspection is required post-installation before system energization. Commercial and industrial work may trigger additional mechanical, electrical, or energy-code reviews. Ductwork mods in older structures can trigger lead-safe work practice notifications. Source: City of San Antonio Development Services, www.sanantonio.gov/planning.

When is the busy season for HVAC in San Antonio?

May through September is peak cooling season—San Antonio's ambient temps regularly hit 95°F+, and AC failures drive emergency calls. June–August is the revenue peak. February–March sees a secondary surge (spring maintenance, furnace end-of-life replacements before warm weather). Winter (December–January) is slowest. Savvy contractors lock in commercial contracts February–April to fill the summer pipeline and upsell maintenance plans to smooth cash flow year-round. Source: National HVAC industry seasonality data and local San Antonio contractor reports.

What insurance and bonding do I need to bid commercial HVAC work in San Antonio?

Minimum general liability insurance is $300,000 for residential work; $500,000–$1,000,000 is standard for commercial contracts. Workers' compensation insurance is required if you employ any staff (Texas statutory rates apply based on experience modification). Bonding ($10,000–$25,000) is often a contract requirement for commercial and municipal jobs. Commercial clients and GCs will ask for proof of insurance and bonding before awarding work. Texas does not mandate specific HVAC insurance minimums by state law, but lack of coverage will cost you jobs and expose you to catastrophic liability. Source: Texas Department of Insurance and standard commercial construction practices.