How should I handle my A/C belt making noise?

My air conditioner is squealing in my 98 Toyota Avalon. It only does this when I start it and only lasts a few seconds, but seems to be getting worse. I know the problem is probably that the belt needs to be tightened or replaced, but I wonder what is the most cost-effective way of handling this? Should I fix it right away (will it cause more expensive problems down the road if I wait)? Can I just let it go until it breaks completely? How much should I expect to spend to have a shop do the repair for me?

How should I handle my A/C belt making noise?
The most cost effective way to handle it is replace it right away. It will definitely cause more problems down the road if you wait until it breaks. It probably isn't attached to just your a/c, so if it breaks there's a chance that something like your water pump might stop working as well. Ask your friends where they take their cars for repair and then call and get estimates from those places.
Reply:Are you sure it is your AC belt? A belt squealing for a few seconds on start up can be the alternator belt under extra load. Try shutting off the AC and start the engine. Obviously, if you still have the noise it isn't the AC. An alternator belt is cheaper and easier than compressor bearings/bushings or idler tensioner.
Reply:the belt tensioner most likely needs to be replaced. i think it is spring loaded. if you have 80,000 or more miles. the pulley bearing goes bad. it gets dry. to check it you can spray a little wd40 on the front of the pulley and see if it goes away. if it does then replace the pulley. good luck!
Reply:it sounds like the belt could be loose, look at your belt if you have cracks replace it, if not tighten