A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Fort Lauderdale Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a central component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a professional 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.

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 sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Solar Air Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer added features and may help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

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.

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Fort Lauderdale. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a large 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 examine these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts are faulty.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.

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

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s generally around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs between $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 exceptional value, because we can discover and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us determine 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 more 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $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 Solar Air Inc. technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1975, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Fort Lauderdale and dedication to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 954-320-7398 today!

—

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