A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Lawrence Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 crucial component for your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast 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 brand 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 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 more intensely to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is wrong 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 take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Scott Temperature can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models offer added features and might help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

In general, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful 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 available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Lawrence. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper 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 Scott Temperature technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser 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 between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your model 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 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 prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but could offer greatly improved 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 generally within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to minimize interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $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 extraordinary value, because we can find and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will provide 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:

  • Strange 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. 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a better 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 Scott Temperature technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1945, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Lawrence and commitment to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 785-269-0465 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.