8 Common Air Conditioning Repairs and How Much They Can Cost to Fix

May 14, 2021

A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Troy Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for a cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a certified 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 work it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Edington Heating & Cooling Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include additional features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, replenishing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Troy. We also serve local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a large number 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 Edington Heating & Cooling Inc technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

If your air conditioner is suffering from drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but can offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically 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 usually between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently more expensive, but worth it to lower the risk of interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service can also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will review extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us figure out the source of the malfunction.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
  • Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds an abnormal amount of strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it may be a better option to arrange for 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 Edington Heating & Cooling Inc technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1958, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Troy and devotion to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 937-558-9478 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.