Without regular maintenance, incredibly costly plumbing and HVAC repairs may be needed. These can put a serious strain on your budget and require extensive home restorations. Here are some of the most expensive plumbing repairs and HVAC services it’s best to try to avoid:
1.Exterior Drainage Issues
Your exterior drainage system consists of gutters, downspouts, and properly sloped ground. These are intended to direct water away from your home. But improper sloping and failed gutters and downspouts can have the opposite effect, causing flooding and extensive water damage. Exterior drainage improvements may cost as little as $500 (a complete drainage system will cost about $4,214 on average (in 2022)). However, this pales compared to the tens of thousands you can spend on water damage repair.1
2.Repairing a Septic Tank
Fixing a septic tank is one of the most expensive plumbing repairs. As of 2022, the average repair cost was $628 to $2,919, with major repairs exceeding $6,000. Diagnosing an issue can cost a few hundred dollars alone. Tank material is a major cost factor; plastic is generally cheaper to repair, while concrete and fiberglass are more expensive. And if you have to replace the leach field, it can cost you as much as $20,000.2
3.Bathroom Plumbing Failure
The high concentration of plumbing fixtures makes a bathroom susceptible to water damage. During a failure, the damage may not be limited to a toilet or tub. In addition to the fixture and pipes serving it, grout, caulking, flooring materials, and the underlying framing may need to be replaced. Expensive issues can be avoided by sealing gaps, cleaning up spotty mold, and repairing small leaks. Otherwise, you may spend between $6,620 and $16,695, or as much as $28,000, to remodel a primary bathroom (according to 2023 estimates by HomeAdvisor).3
4.AC Compressor Failure
Replacing the compressor is one of the most expensive HVAC repairs, if not the most. When it fails, your HVAC system will not work. A new compressor, according to This Old House, costs $1,500 on average, but can run as high as $3,000.4 The price of a compressor increases depending on its size and capacity. You can save by addressing simple-to-fix issues like dirty coils and clogged filters that can strain the system, cause overheating, and damage the compressor.
5.Poor Attic/Crawlspace Ventilation
If your attic or crawlspace isn’t well-ventilated, moisture can get trapped in remote areas. The effects range from mold to structural issues due to moisture-induced wood decay. Crawlspace cleaning, repair, and restoration can cost up to $15,000 and mold removal can cost up to $4,000. Fixing the foundation under the crawlspace can cost $8,000; replacing just one support beam can cost $4,000.5 Repairing a water-damaged attic or roof can cost thousands more, but you can improve ventilation and reduce the risks with an attic fan, which usually costs under $1,000 to install.6
Hire Village Plumbing for Expert Plumbing and HVAC Repairs
We can help avoid the most expensive plumbing repairs and HVAC services with routine maintenance. Scheduled service calls are available to members of our Village Partner Plans. When major repairs are required, you’ll receive high-quality, professional service by trained technicians, a detailed quote, and access to specials, discounts, and financing options. You can reach us anytime, as we provide 24/7 emergency services. Contact us online or call 713-526-1491 for prompt service.