A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Mobile Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting into 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 brand 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 work it takes to clean it.
Typically, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with additional 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 moves heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
For the most part, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to 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 Mobile. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect 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 Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other parts are faulty.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $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 model of air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
If your air conditioner is dealing with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts 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 duct work, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of 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 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 generally within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might 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.
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 protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also shrink your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide detailed information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us locate the source of the malfunction.
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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be a result of 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 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 Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1971, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Mobile and commitment to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 251-471-2674 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.