A trusted air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Wisconsin Rapids 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 discuss 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 vital component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can do 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.
Typically, 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 more intensely to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t handle 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 come with added 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 moves heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, refilling your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Wisconsin Rapids. We also serve nearby communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide 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 Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other parts are malfunctioning.
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 between $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 parts 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 ventilation, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to prevent 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. Service Calls and Tune-Ups
The cost of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually 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. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and handle problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could 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 AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Unusual 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 restricts airflow. This can also be stemming from a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might be a better option to schedule 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 settle on the right choice. Since 1915, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Wisconsin Rapids and commitment to professional customer service. Schedule 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.