A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Dresden 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 review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could 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 fix the problem, an HVAC technician from McFadden Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer 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. Coolant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, replenishing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Dresden. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach 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 McFadden Heating & Cooling technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading 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 parts 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

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 costlier but may offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs 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 for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently 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. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will offer detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds more 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $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 in the long run.

Your McFadden Heating & Cooling technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1960, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Dresden and devotion to outstanding customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 519-683-2339 today!

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