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

May 14, 2021

A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Heflin Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s go over 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 vital component for every cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

In most cases, 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 hold 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 malfunctioning with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

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

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

Most of the time, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also known as 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Heflin. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide variety 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 Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 can 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 fixed to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often 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 within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are generally 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, professional technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us locate 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork hampers airflow. This can also be stemming from 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a better option to request 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, Inc technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1974, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Heflin and commitment to the best possible customer service. Schedule 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.