A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Bishop Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a professional HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design 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 work it takes to clean it.

Typically, 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 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 malfunctioning with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with added features and may 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 moves heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Generally, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Bishop. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a wide variety 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 Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning technician will review these parts during the diagnosis to find 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 houses the refrigerant and takes in 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 commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your model 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 systems 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 across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually 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 generally around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently 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. Enrolling in 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 uncover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us find 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 caused by 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 increases.

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

Your Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1985, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Bishop and dedication to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 760-784-9034 today!

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