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

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

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a trained 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 work it takes to clean it.

In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Knoechel Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models provide extra features and could help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is a key 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, replenishing your supply of coolant will run 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 manufactured due to its harm to 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 Zelienople. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components include 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 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 Knoechel Heating technician will inspect these parts during the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.

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 often around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. 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. Travel Costs and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually 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 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.

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 protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service may also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us identify the source of the damage.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant 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 restricts 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might be a better 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 its life span.

Your Knoechel Heating technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1947, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Zelienople and dedication to outstanding customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 724-425-5852 today!

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