A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Auburn Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the median estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a qualified HVAC technician.
Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the type you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.
Typically, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you interact with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Forster Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and may help you save money in the long run. Updating your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s broken, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, replacing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Auburn. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a large range of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contactor.
Most electrical components cost around $75–$290 to repair or replace. The circuit board is more important and replacing it can be between $125–$625. Your Forster Heating technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
If your air conditioner is dealing with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected components might include:
- Drain pan, which collects and drains condensed water. Replacement: $250–$575
- Condensate drain tube, which drains the drain pan. Replacement: $100–$195.
- The drain line, which may need to be flushed of mold, mildew or clogs. Service cost: $75–$250.
7. Ductwork Repair
Without your duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.
8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups
The cost of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are almost always more expensive, but worth it to minimize interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.
Average air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can uncover and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, expert technicians will review extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us locate the source of the damage.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Strange or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
- Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure prevents cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork hampers airflow. This can also be stemming from a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
- Higher utility bills. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a wiser option to request air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over its life span.
Your Forster Heating technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1979, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Auburn and devotion to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 530-885-8081 today!
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1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.