A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in West Jefferson Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness 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. Air Filter
The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating into 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 design 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 labor it takes to clean it.
In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models come with 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 a key part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
For the most part, replacing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its effect on 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 West Jefferson. We also serve local communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper 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 West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. technician will review these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems can’t function normally.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your model 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 systems 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 keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually 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 around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are almost always 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.
Average air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an exceptional value, because we can spot and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, professional technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us find 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be stemming from a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a better option to schedule 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 West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1976, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in West Jefferson and commitment to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 614-879-9091 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.