A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial 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 scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the average estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a vital component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and effort it takes to clean it.
Typically, 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 cooling bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Solar Air Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include additional features and might help you save money in the long run. Updating your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s cracked, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
For the most part, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. More popularly known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in Fort Lauderdale. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a large range of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contactor.
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 review these parts during the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.
5. Evaporator and 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 spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
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 can 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 within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but could offer greatly improved 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 takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually 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.
Professional air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can spot and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, professional technicians will share extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us narrow down the source of the damage.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Annoying 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill is more than $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 determine the right choice. Since 1975, we’ve been renowned 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.