A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital 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 extensiveness 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. Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, stopping 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.
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 longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Patterson & Stirling Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include extra features and can 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 a key part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Erie. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a broad range 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 Patterson & Stirling Inc technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components are faulty.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains 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 dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your type of 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 systems 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 through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but might offer greatly increased 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 generally within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor can 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.
Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, professional technicians will share thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover 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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds more 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could be a better option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.
Your Patterson & Stirling Inc technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1860, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Erie and dedication to outstanding 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.