A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Bishop Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 vital component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting into your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.
In most cases, 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 more intensely to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could 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 handle 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 include extra 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 a crucial part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s cracked, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Typically, replenishing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger 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 eligible for use, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Bishop. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad variety 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 Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning technician will take a look at these parts across the diagnosis to determine 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 soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $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 specific 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 may 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but can 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 cost of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may 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.
Average air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can spot and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us find 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 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. Frequent starting and stopping adds more strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
- Higher utility bills. Faulty 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 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 Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1985, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Bishop and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 760-784-9034 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.