A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in New Castle Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a trained 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

Generally, 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 communicate with your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

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

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

Generally, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 New Castle. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a broad 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 Central Heating & Plumbing technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator 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 between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

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 systems 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. Damage to the Ventilation

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

8. Service Calls and Routine Maintenance

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor may 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 around $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 spot and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair 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 figure out the source of the problem.

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 prevents 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $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 Central Heating & Plumbing technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1967, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in New Castle and commitment to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 724-401-1843 today!

—

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