A dependable air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Mount Horeb Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness 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. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a central component for a cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from moving into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a qualified HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the type you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable 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 do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from JW Brager Heating and Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added 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 leaking costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Generally, replacing your supply of coolant runs 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 produced due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Mount Horeb. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large 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 JW Brager Heating and Cooling technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator 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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move within 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 more expensive but could offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently more expensive, but worth it to lower the risk of 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 maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us uncover the source of the damage.

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 a result of 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill is more than $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 JW Brager Heating and Cooling technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1997, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Mount Horeb and dedication to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 608-447-0555 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.