A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Fort Lauderdale 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 discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout 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 qualified 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

For the most part, 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 harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Solar Air Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with extra features and can help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s cracked 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 more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer produced 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 Fort Lauderdale. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence 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 Solar Air Inc. technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out 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 contains the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Drainage Issues

If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected components 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 duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive 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 Tune-Ups

The cost of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor can 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.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs between $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 maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will share detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us uncover 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 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. Repeated starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it could be a smarter option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.

Your Solar Air Inc. technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1975, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Fort Lauderdale and devotion to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 954-320-7398 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.