A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in South Beloit and Belvidere Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, preventing it from moving throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 type 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 effort it takes to clean it.

Generally, 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 more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

On average, replacing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of 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 South Beloit and Belvidere. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components consist of 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 Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will take a look at these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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 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. Broken Ductwork

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

8. Service Calls and Routine Maintenance

The other potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $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 prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Quality 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 outstanding value, because we can find and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us uncover the source of the problem.

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 a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

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 its life span.

Your Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1964, we’ve been known for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in South Beloit and Belvidere and dedication to professional customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 877-389-2465 today!

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