A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Athol Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness 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 any cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating 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 qualified 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 washable 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 do so 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 control your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer useful features and can help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, refreshing your supply of coolant will run 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 harm to 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Athol. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a large number of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contractor.

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 Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components are faulty.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains 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 scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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. Broken Ductwork

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but can offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

The other likely costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently 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 between $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also lower your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork hampers airflow. This can also be a result of 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. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it may 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 in the long run.

Your Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1998, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Athol and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 208-561-1226 today!

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.