A quality air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, specially 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 scope 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 central component for any cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 work it takes to clean it.

For the most part, 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 longer to sustain 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 malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as basic 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 depend on the model you choose. Smart models offer useful features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs 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 costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs 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 local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad 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 inspect these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components are malfunctioning.

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 between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering 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 struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected components 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly increased 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 generally around $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might 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.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

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

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Annoying 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 reduces airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of 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 wiser option to schedule 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 known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Ballwin and St. Charles and dedication to professional customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 636-206-4250 today!

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.