A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Rockford 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 your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a certified 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 cleanable filter, the only cost is the water and effort it takes to clean it.

In general, 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 harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioner itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with useful features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Most of the time, replenishing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Rockford. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad 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 Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains 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 spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but can offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s generally between $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are 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 prevent 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 fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can spot and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us find the source of the trouble.

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 reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra 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 might 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 over its life span.

Your Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 2006, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Rockford and commitment to professional customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at (815) 914-6197 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.