A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in St. Louis Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated 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 average estimated costs1 to repair them.
1. Air Filter
The air filter is a key component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting into 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 qualified HVAC technician.
Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the type 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.
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 harder to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
2. Thermostat
Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is wrong 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 dispose of the problem, an HVAC technician from Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with extra features and could help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s broken, costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.
On average, refilling 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. Also called 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 uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in St. Louis. We also serve local communities.
4. Electrical Issues
Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence 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 Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.
5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils
Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses 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 dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your specific air conditioner.
6. Drainage Issues
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 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. Ductwork Repair
Without your duct work, cool air cannot move within 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 more expensive but might 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 cost of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally between $70–$200, which takes care of 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 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 around $85 to $110. Enrolling in 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 notice and resolve problems quickly and inexpensively. This service may also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.
Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?
Our friendly, professional technicians will share detailed information about your AC unit. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us narrow down the source of the malfunction.
Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:
- Annoying 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 restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
- Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.
If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it could be a smarter option to schedule 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 renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in St. Louis and devotion to the best possible customer service. Arrange 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.