A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Ballwin and St. Charles 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 discuss 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 key component for any cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short 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 design 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 effort 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 utility bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you communicate with 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 straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Air Alliance Team can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer added 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 vital part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Generally, 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. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced 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 Ballwin and St. Charles. 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 reach a large range 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 Air Alliance Team technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses 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 typically around $581 or higher, depending on your specific air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

If your air conditioner is dealing with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Travel Costs and Routine Maintenance

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an exceptional value, because we can discover and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service can also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us figure out the source of the damage.

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 hampers 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it could be a wiser option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.

Your Air Alliance Team technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1993, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Ballwin and St. Charles and dedication to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 636-206-4584 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.