A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Michigan City Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness 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 central component for every cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing into 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 washable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.
In general, 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 utility bills.
2. Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Paniccia Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and may help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Leaking Refrigerant
Refrigerant is a key part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
In general, replenishing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, 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 Michigan City. We also serve local communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a large 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 Paniccia Heating & Cooling technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other parts are faulty.
5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds 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 usually around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of 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 components 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. Broken Ductwork
Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but can offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally 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 typically around $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are almost always 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.
Quality air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Signing up for 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 uncover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, experienced technicians will share extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us uncover the source of the damage.
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 restricts 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
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 Paniccia Heating & Cooling technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1993, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Michigan City and dedication to professional customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 219-872-2198 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.