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

May 14, 2021

A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Wharton 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 discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, preventing it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a trained 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 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 do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Faust Air Conditioning and Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include useful features and could 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 an integral 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.

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured 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 suggest our air conditioning installation in Wharton. We also serve local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach 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 Faust Air Conditioning and Heating technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

If your air conditioner is suffering from 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 duct work, cool air cannot move throughout 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 more expensive but might offer greatly improved 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 takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may 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 around $85 to $110. Trying a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can notice and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also shrink your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us uncover the source of the malfunction.

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 reduces airflow. This can also be stemming from 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a wiser option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.

Your Faust Air Conditioning and Heating technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1983, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Wharton and commitment to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 979-323-6130 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.