A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in the Rio Grande Valley Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the size 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 key component for your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and effort it takes to clean it.
Typically, 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 more intensely to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with useful features and might 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 crucial part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s broken, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Most of the time, replenishing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. More popularly known as Freon, R-22 is no longer used due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 the Rio Grande Valley. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a large 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 Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. technician will check these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your type 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 components 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 within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but might offer greatly increased 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 usually within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are 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 prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.
Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Trying 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 handle 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, experienced technicians will share comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us locate the source of the malfunction.
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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds more 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a smarter option to schedule air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.
Your Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1991, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in the Rio Grande Valley and devotion to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 956-630-3522 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.