A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Newton Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, preventing it from drifting throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

In general, 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 energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use 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 basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Brookwood Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models offer added features and may 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 can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 Newton. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a large 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 Brookwood Inc technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 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 within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Tune-Ups

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

Emergency services are frequently more expensive, but worth it to prevent 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. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can find and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

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

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 stops 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. Repeated starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might 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 its life span.

Your Brookwood Inc technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1962, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Newton and dedication to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 641-316-9803 today!

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.