A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Florissant and St. Charles Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s discuss 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 sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing 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 design you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

In general, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from B & B Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include added features and could help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it transfers 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 is between $100 to $350, but this number can 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 disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, making it more expensive.

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

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a wide 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 B & B Heating & Cooling technician will check these parts throughout the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other parts can’t function normally.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or 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 spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is suffering from drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts 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 throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but might offer greatly enhanced 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 typically around $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration 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.

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

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide detailed information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us determine 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 hampers 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it may 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 time.

Your B & B Heating & Cooling technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1985, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Florissant and St. Charles and dedication to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 314-325-7552 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.