A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Lake Forest Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing 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 qualified 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 effort it takes to clean it.
For the most part, 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 hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you interact with your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include extra features and could help you save money in the long run. Updating your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Typically, refilling your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is larger 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 eligible for use, 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 Lake Forest. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach 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 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other systems can’t function normally.
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 around $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your type of 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 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 throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but could offer greatly enhanced 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 generally between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are almost always 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 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 service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and resolve problems quickly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out the source of the damage.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Unusual 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 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. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.
If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it may be a smarter option to request 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 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 2015, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Lake Forest and commitment to outstanding customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 949-204-0859 today!
---
1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.