A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Philadelphia 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 discuss 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 key component for any cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a trained 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 washable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

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

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

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

3. Coolant Leak

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

Generally, replenishing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as 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 uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Philadelphia. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence 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 Retro HVAC Service & Installation technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components can’t function normally.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses 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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally around $581 or higher, depending on your type 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 might 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 within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s usually between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can find and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will offer thorough information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify the source of the damage.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant 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 hampers 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a better 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 Retro HVAC Service & Installation technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2020, we’ve been famous for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Philadelphia and devotion to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 267-277-3851 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.