A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Pella 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 average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a certified 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 time it takes to clean it.

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

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include added features and could help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number may 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 available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Pella. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide 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 Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating technician will take a look at these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator 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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems may 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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 flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share thorough information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a wiser 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 Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1949, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Pella and commitment to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 641-628-3621 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.