A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Shamokin and Sunbury Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter
The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, preventing it from drifting 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 licensed 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 time it takes to clean it.
Typically, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.
2. Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with extra 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 a crucial part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
In general, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is larger 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 eligible for use, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Shamokin and Sunbury. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Damaged Electrical Components
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide 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 LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. technician will take a look at these parts across the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.
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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.
6. Issues with the Drainage
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 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts
Without your duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.
8. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance
The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are frequently 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 anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will offer comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us determine the source of the damage.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Unusual 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 restricts airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might be a better option to request air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.
Your LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1990, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Shamokin and Sunbury and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 570-648-0748 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.