A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Mobile Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size 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. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can handle 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.

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 more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models include useful features and might help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

Generally, replacing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Mobile. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a broad variety 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 Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

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

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly 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 components 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. Broken Ductwork

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across 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 could 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 potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually between $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 prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can uncover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover the source of the problem.

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 restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds more 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 goes over $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 Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1971, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Mobile and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 251-471-2674 today!

—

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.