A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Dundas and Northfield Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

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

The air filter is a central component for any cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can do 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 washable filter, the only cost is the water and effort it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Better Air can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models come with added features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

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

In general, replacing your supply of coolant runs 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 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 suggest our air conditioning installation in Dundas and Northfield. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a large 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 Better Air technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other parts can’t function normally.

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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Clogged Drainage System

If your air conditioner is struggling with 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

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

Emergency services are almost always 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 around $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 spot and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant 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 caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra 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 increases.

If your repair bill goes over $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 over time.

Your Better Air technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1978, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Dundas and Northfield and devotion to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 507-663-1208 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.