A trusted air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in West Columbia 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It catches 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 handle it without the help of a professional 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 reusable 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 harder to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and might help you save money in the long run. Replacing 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 leaking, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
In general, refilling your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also known as 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in West Columbia. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a wide 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 Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.
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 spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your brand 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 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. Ductwork Repair
Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but could 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 between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are usually 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 anywhere from $85 to $110. Trying a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will review thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned 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 stemming from a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it may be a smarter option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.
Your Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1964, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in West Columbia and devotion to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 803-265-4208 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.