A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Erie 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 go over some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a trained 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 effort it takes to clean it.

In general, 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 harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your 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 AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Patterson & Stirling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models provide useful features and can help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

On average, replacing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number might 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 effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Erie. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a large variety 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 Patterson & Stirling technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds 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 diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

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 systems 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but could offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently 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. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us determine the source of the damage.

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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be caused by 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 spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a wiser 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 Patterson & Stirling technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1860, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Erie and devotion to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 814-308-0416 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.