A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially 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 extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 vital component for a cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 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 do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility 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 fixing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models include 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. Leaking Refrigerant

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

Typically, replenishing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, 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 Wisconsin Rapids. We also serve local communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad number 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 inspect these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from 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 commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

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 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. Broken Ductwork

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor may 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can spot and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us determine the source of the trouble.

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 reduces 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might 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 over time.

Your Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1915, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Wisconsin Rapids and dedication to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 715-301-0256 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.