A trusted air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Wisconsin Rapids Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for a cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can handle 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

For the most part, 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. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and might 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 an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, refreshing your supply of coolant will run 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in Wisconsin Rapids. 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 wide 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 Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds 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 dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often 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 takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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 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 outstanding value, because we can spot and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide detailed information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds extra 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 increases.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could 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 its life span.

Your Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1915, we’ve been known for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Wisconsin Rapids and commitment to outstanding customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 715-301-0256 today!

—

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