A dependable 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 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 any cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short 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 type 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 time 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 more intensely to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as straightforward 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 start with the model you choose. Smart models come with extra features and might 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 an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Typically, replacing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. More popularly known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of 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 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 James Heating & A/C, Inc technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds 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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your model 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 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 through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly improved 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 generally around $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor may 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.
Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us determine the source of the trouble.
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 restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds an abnormal amount of strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
- Higher utility bills. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could 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 James Heating & A/C, Inc technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1967, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Lexington and dedication to outstanding customer service. Schedule 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.