A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Auburn and Opelika Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss 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 crucial component for any cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a certified HVAC technician.
Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the brand you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.
For the most part, 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 longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you interact with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Farnell Mechanical, Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include added features and might 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 transfers heat out of your home. If it’s broken, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
For the most part, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Auburn and Opelika. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad 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 Farnell Mechanical, Inc. technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected components 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. Ductwork Repair
Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly improved 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 generally within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may 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 anywhere from $85 to $110. Trying a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can notice and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service can also shrink your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, expert technicians will offer comprehensive information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover 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 a result of a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent 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 increases.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a wiser option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.
Your Farnell Mechanical, Inc. technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 2000, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Auburn and Opelika and dedication to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 334-524-2458 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.