A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Laguna Niguel Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.
The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 central component for every cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick 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 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 time it takes to clean it.
In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling 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 fixing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Ocean Air Conditioning and Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide useful features and might help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is a key part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Laguna Niguel. 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 influence a wide number 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 Ocean Air Conditioning and Heating technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other components 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 dispelling 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 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 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 more expensive but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally 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 includes 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 frequently 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.
Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also shrink your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide comprehensive information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us find 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a better 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 Ocean Air Conditioning and Heating technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1972, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Laguna Niguel and dedication to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 949-317-4175 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.