A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Bishop 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 go over some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter
The air filter is a key component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 brand 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 work it takes to clean it.
In general, 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 communicate with your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include useful features and could help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Leaking Refrigerant
Refrigerant is a crucial part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner requires 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. Damaged Electrical Components
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large 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 examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.
5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.
6. Issues with the Drainage
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 systems 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. Broken Ductwork
Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.
8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups
The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically between $70–$200, which covers 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 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.
Quality air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and handle problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us determine the source of the problem.
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 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. Frequent 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it may be a smarter option to request air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.
Your Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1985, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Bishop and commitment to exemplary customer service. Arrange 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.