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

May 14, 2021

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

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging 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 brand 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 time 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 longer to hold 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 might think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from ACE Solutions can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and may 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 key part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, refreshing your supply of coolant is 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 used due to its effect on 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 Hasbrouck Heights. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large number 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 ACE Solutions technician will review these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems can’t function normally.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally 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 parts 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move within 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 pricier 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 usually around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor can 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 around $85 to $110. Participating in 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 find and resolve problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also shrink your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will share extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a wiser option to request 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 ACE Solutions technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2014, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Hasbrouck Heights and devotion to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 201-579-2562 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.