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

May 14, 2021

A quality air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Long Island 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 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 your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting into your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a licensed 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 effort it takes to clean it.

Typically, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours 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 communicate with your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Airmax Long Island Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models include added features and can help you save money in the long run. Updating your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

On average, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. More popularly known as Freon, R-22 is no longer used 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Long Island. 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 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 Airmax Long Island Inc technician will review these parts during the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $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 brand of air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

If your air conditioner is suffering from drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts might 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 taken care of to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually 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 covers 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 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.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can uncover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, professional technicians will offer detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us find the source of the damage.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Annoying 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. 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a wiser option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.

Your Airmax Long Island Inc technician will help you make the right choice. Since 2004, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Long Island and dedication to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 631-737-5566 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.