A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Lexington 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a professional 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 labor it takes to clean it.

In general, 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 utility bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from James Heating & A/C, Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer added features and might 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 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.

Generally, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number might 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 disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, 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 Lexington. We also serve local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a broad 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 James Heating & A/C, Inc technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Evaporator and Condenser 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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often 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 parts can 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 through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but may offer greatly enhanced 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 between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an exceptional value, because we can spot and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us find the source of the trouble.

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 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. Repeated 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might 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 in the long run.

Your James Heating & A/C, Inc technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1967, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Lexington and devotion to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 336-853-6070 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.