8 Common Air Conditioning Repairs and How Much They Can Cost to Fix

May 14, 2021

A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Newton 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 discuss 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 crucial component for every cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, preventing it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a trained 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 work it takes to clean it.

In most cases, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you interact with your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward 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 begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer additional features and could 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 vital part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, replacing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is bigger 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 used now, making it more expensive.

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

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a broad number 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 Brookwood Inc technician will inspect these parts during the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components are malfunctioning.

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 between $675–$1,300.

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

6. Drainage Issues

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 components 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually 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 usually within $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may 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. 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 handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide extensive information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us narrow down the source of the problem.

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 prevents 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. 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 is more than $1,500, it could be a smarter 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 Brookwood Inc technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1962, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Newton and dedication to professional customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 641-316-9803 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.