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

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can take care of 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 effort it takes to clean it.

Generally, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Thermostat

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

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

3. Coolant Leak

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

On average, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Covington. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect 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 Covington Air Systems technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other parts are malfunctioning.

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 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 brand 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 systems 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly increased 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 likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally around $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor may 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.

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

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will share extensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 prevents 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 more 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $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 in the long run.

Your Covington Air Systems technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1980, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Covington and devotion to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at (770) 462-5319 today!

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