A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Sussex County 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 go over 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 key component for any cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a qualified 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 effort 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 harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning 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 handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models offer additional features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

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

Typically, replenishing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger 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 requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Sussex County. 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 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 Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components are faulty.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and absorbs the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your specific air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

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 components 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but might offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

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

Emergency services are frequently 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Signing up for 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 spot and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer detailed information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out 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 stops 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. Inefficient 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 wiser 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 Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1988, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Sussex County and devotion to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 862-345-6896 today!

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.