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

A dependable air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in St. Cloud Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the median estimated costs¹ to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a licensed 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and effort it takes to clean it.

In most cases, 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 more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Osceola Air, LLC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models come with additional features and could help you save money in the long run. Switching 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 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.

For the most part, replenishing 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. 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in St. Cloud. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large 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 Osceola Air, LLC technician will check these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains 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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often 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 systems 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly enhanced 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 usually between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to minimize 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. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can uncover and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also lower your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, professional technicians will review detailed information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.

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 restricts 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 changes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may 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 in the long run.

Your Osceola Air, LLC technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2014, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in St. Cloud and devotion to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 407-954-8626 today!

Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.