A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Des Moines Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s go over some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might 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 handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Heartland Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and can 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 key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer produced 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 Des Moines. 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 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 Heartland Heating & Cooling technician will review these parts during the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components are malfunctioning.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of 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 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly improved 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 generally around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might 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 around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an exceptional value, because we can uncover and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service can also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out 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 prevents 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. Repeated 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 harder. 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 Heartland Heating & Cooling technician will help you make the right choice. Since 2003, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Des Moines and dedication to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 515-344-3579 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.