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

May 14, 2021

A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Pella Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope 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 key component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a professional 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and work it takes to clean it.

In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling 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 conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include additional features and can 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 key part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, replacing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer used due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 Pella. 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 Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating technician will review these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

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 anywhere from $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 particular air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

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 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but can offer greatly enhanced 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 typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently 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 outstanding value, because we can uncover and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will review detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us locate the source of the problem.

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 reduces 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $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 time.

Your Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1949, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Pella and dedication to the best possible 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.