8 Common Air Conditioning Repairs and How Much They May Cost to Fix

A trusted air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Franklin & South Indy Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 costs¹to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component of every cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from moving through 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 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

In general, 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 longer to hold 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 wrong with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Winters Heating and Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide extra features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts at around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s cracked, costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, refilling your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in Franklin & South Indy. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a large number 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 Winters Heating and Cooling technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from the surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your model of the air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

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
• The condensate drain tube drains the drain pan. Replacement: $100–$195.
• The drain line may need to be flushed of mold, mildew, or clogs. Service cost: $75–$250.

7. Ductwork Repair

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically 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 between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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 fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can spot and resolve problems quickly and inexpensively. This service can also shrink your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, professional technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us locate the source of the malfunction.

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 stops 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. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra 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 spikes.

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

Your Winters Heating and Cooling technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2019, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Franklin & South Indy and our dedication to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 317-406-5382 today!

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