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

A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Warrenton Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for a cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, preventing it from drifting throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a licensed 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.

In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include added 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 moves heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Most of the time, replenishing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Warrenton. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large number of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contractor.

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 Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and takes in 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 brand of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 may 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. Broken Ductwork

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually 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 flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will share thorough information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us find the source of the trouble.

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 restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.

• Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.

• Higher utility bills. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a wiser option to schedule 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 Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1946, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Warrenton and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 636-456-5041 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.