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

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

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a certified 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 washable filter, the only cost is the water and time it takes to clean it.

Typically, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you might think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Olde Towne Heating & Air can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and can 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 key part of your air conditioner because it moves heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs could include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner needs R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Mount Pleasant. 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 affect a large variety 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 Olde Towne Heating & Air technician will take a look at these parts during the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

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

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before scattering the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 may 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 addressed to prevent your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but might offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics 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 include labor and parts, which are often 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.

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 outstanding value, because we can discover and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share detailed information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us figure out the source of the problem.

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 a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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 changes.

If your repair bill goes over $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 in the long run.

Your Olde Towne Heating & Air technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 2009, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Mount Pleasant and dedication to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 843-485-0967 today!

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