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

May 14, 2021

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

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a licensed HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design 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 work it takes to clean it.

In most cases, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Clean Air HVAC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with additional features and may 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 an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s broken, costs could 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 used due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 Pacheco. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad variety 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 Clean Air HVAC technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

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

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to prevent your cooling bills from going up. 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 most often 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 between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually 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 around $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can uncover and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

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

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Annoying 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 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it may be a smarter 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 Clean Air HVAC technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2004, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Pacheco and devotion to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 925-233-6238 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.