A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Libertyville Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 every cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick 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 design 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 work it takes to clean it.
In most cases, 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 longer to maintain 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 malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include added features and may 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 key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s cracked, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, refilling your supply of coolant costs 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 manufactured due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Libertyville. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad range 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 TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical technician will inspect these parts during the diagnosis to find out 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 absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of 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 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 across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to keep your cooling bills from increasing. 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 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 around $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often 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.
Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $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 exceptional value, because we can uncover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also shrink your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us locate the source of the damage.
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 hampers 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could 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 TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1993, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Libertyville and commitment to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 847-362-0262 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.