A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Arlington Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the size 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. Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, preventing it from moving 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 qualified HVAC technician.
Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design 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.
Typically, 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 sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer useful features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Most of the time, refilling your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number might 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 effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Arlington. We also serve local communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include 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 Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.
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. 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 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically 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 covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are 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 lower the risk of 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. Signing up for 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 discover and resolve problems promptly and inexpensively. This service may also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, professional technicians will share detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us narrow down the source of the trouble.
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 hampers airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds an abnormal amount of strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
- Higher utility bills. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a wiser 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 Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2012, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Arlington and dedication to professional customer service. Request 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.