A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Arlington 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 discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a central component for your cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, preventing it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a qualified 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.

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. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include added features and may 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 a key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, replacing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also called 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 needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Arlington. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

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 Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to learn 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 takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your specific air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. 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. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to minimize 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. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will share extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.

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 prevents 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. Repeated starting and stopping adds extra 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 changes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might 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 over its life span.

Your Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2012, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Arlington and commitment to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 360-255-5857 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.