A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Ellsworth Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle 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 washable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

Typically, 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 maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide useful features and could 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 a crucial 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.

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name 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 uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Ellsworth. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain 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 Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other components are faulty.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

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

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

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move throughout 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 more expensive but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always more expensive, but worth it to prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $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 exceptional value, because we can discover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us find 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of 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 spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might 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 over time.

Your Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1952, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Ellsworth and devotion to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 715-318-6728 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.