A quality air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Cache Valley Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

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

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short 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.

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 sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could 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 take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Western Mechanical, Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models include added features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out 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 could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, replenishing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also called 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 suggest our air conditioning installation in Cache Valley. 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 affect a broad range 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 Western Mechanical, Inc. technician will check these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

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. Clogged Drainage System

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 components 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. Damage to the Ventilation

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 going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but might offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

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

Emergency services are usually 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will share extensive information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover 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 prevents cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it could 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 in the long run.

Your Western Mechanical, Inc. technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1971, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Cache Valley and devotion to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 435-753-5515 today!

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