A dependable air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially 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 scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 every cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 washable 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 change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you interact with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Heartland Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with extra features and may 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 crucial 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.
Most of the time, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may 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 requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Des Moines. We also serve surrounding communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a broad 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 Heartland Heating & Cooling technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other parts 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 diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your type 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 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 taken care of to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly increased 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 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 lower the risk of 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. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can spot and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service may also lower your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, expert technicians will share extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover the source of the damage.
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 hampers airflow. This can also be stemming from a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds an abnormal amount of 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could 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 in the long run.
Your Heartland Heating & Cooling technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2003, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Des Moines and dedication to the best possible 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.