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

May 14, 2021

A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Muskogee 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a qualified 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 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 harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

For the most part, refilling 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 called Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Muskogee. We also serve nearby 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 Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components are faulty.

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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often 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 components can 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier 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 typically between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can discover and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide 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:

  • Strange 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds more 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could 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 Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1985, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Muskogee and dedication to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 918-682-8238 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.