A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Albuquerque 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a central component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of 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 labor it takes to clean it.
For the most part, 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 communicate with your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from I-Deal HVAC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and could help you save money in the long run. Updating your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is a crucial part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s leaking, costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
Most of the time, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger 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 available, making it more expensive.
If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Albuquerque. We also serve local communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a large range of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contactor.
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 I-Deal HVAC technician will take a look at these parts during the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.
The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are commonly around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
If your air conditioner is struggling 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. Ductwork Repair
Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but might offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.
8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups
The cost of a service call will depend 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 generally flat rates. Labor can run between $70–$130 per hour.
Emergency services are frequently 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.
Average 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 exceptional value, because we can spot and take care of problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also lower your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will review extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us narrow down 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. Frequent starting and stopping adds an abnormal amount of 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 goes over $1,500, it might be a smarter option to request air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.
Your I-Deal HVAC technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 2018, we’ve been known for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Albuquerque and devotion to the best possible customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 505-445-1250 today!
---
1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.