A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Fredericksburg 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 discuss 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 central component for a cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, stopping it from moving into your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a certified 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 effort it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning 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 air conditioning itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Childress Heating & AC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

Generally, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

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

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a wide range 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 Childress Heating & AC technician will inspect these parts during the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or 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 around $675–$1,300.

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

6. Clogged Drainage System

If your air conditioner is dealing with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier 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 Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can spot and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will share detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out the source of the problem.

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 reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds more 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 spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $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 Childress Heating & AC technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1992, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Fredericksburg and devotion to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 540-675-4306 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.