A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Lancaster Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a central component for a cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from moving {into|through|throughout] your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.
For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours 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 adjust your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you might 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 handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Fairfield Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include additional features and could help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
In general, replenishing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Lancaster. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a broad number 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 Fairfield Heating & Cooling technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components are malfunctioning.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and soaks up 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 typically 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 components 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 through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but can offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally 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 typically between $70–$200, which takes care of 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 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.
Professional air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, expert technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Annoying 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 a result of 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might be a wiser option to arrange for 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 Fairfield Heating & Cooling technician will help you determine the right choice. Since {year}, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Lancaster and devotion to outstanding customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 740-331-4331 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.
