A trusted air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Cambridge Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for any cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, preventing it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

Generally, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Pliescott HVAC Services LLC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and can 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 cracked costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Cambridge. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad number 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 Pliescott HVAC Services LLC technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and takes in 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 often around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly increased 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 are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically around $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are often 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. 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 exceptional value, because we can find and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide comprehensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected 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 keeps 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. Frequent starting and stopping adds extra 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill goes over $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 Pliescott HVAC Services LLC technician will help you make the right choice. Since 2007, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Cambridge and devotion to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 410-228-4822 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.