A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Richmond 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a professional 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 effort it takes to clean it.

In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Refrigeration Systems Ltd. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer extra features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

Refrigerant is a key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, replenishing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Richmond. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a large variety 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 Refrigeration Systems Ltd. technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually 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 may 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 duct work, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor can 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service may also lower your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 prevents cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a smarter 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 Refrigeration Systems Ltd. technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1998, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Richmond and commitment to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 778-693-2532 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.