A quality air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Crystal and Twin Cities 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 average 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 moving throughout 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 work 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 harder to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from GV Heating & Air 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. Switching 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 leaking costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, refreshing 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 called 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 uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities. We also serve local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide 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 GV Heating & Air technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems can’t function normally.

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 around $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 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly enhanced 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 typically within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can find and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide 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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it might be a better option to arrange for 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 GV Heating & Air technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1938, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Crystal and Twin Cities and devotion to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 763-535-2000 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.