A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Heflin 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 average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast 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.

Generally, 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 energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Bain Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide extra features and could help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, replenishing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number may 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 harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 Heflin. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a wide range 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 Bain Heating & Air Conditioning technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts are malfunctioning.

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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but might offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $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 frequently more expensive, but worth it to prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can discover and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us find the source of the trouble.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unusual 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might 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 Bain Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1974, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Heflin and dedication to outstanding customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 256-270-1196 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.