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

The cost of repairs will depend on the size 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. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a central component for your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating through your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a qualified 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 change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models offer useful features and may 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 crucial part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Most of the time, replacing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its disruption of 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Saint Louis. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components contain 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 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 Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating technician will review these parts during the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other parts are malfunctioning.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser 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 scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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. Broken Ductwork

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to stop your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call are dependent 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 generally flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can spot and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us figure out 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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be caused by 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could be a better option to arrange for air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.

Your Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1965, we’ve been known for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Saint Louis and devotion to outstanding customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 314-262-4541 today!

—

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