A dependable air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in York Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness 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. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 work 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 harder 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 malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Strine's can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include additional features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number can 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 eligible for use, 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 York. We also serve local communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad number 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 Strine's technician will review these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your type of 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 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your duct work, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other various costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes 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 lower the risk of 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 exceptional value, because we can uncover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also lower your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will share thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us uncover 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could 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 its life span.

Your Strine's technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1972, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in York and commitment to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 717-383-4479 today!

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