A dependable air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Corpus Christi 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 discuss some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from moving into your HVAC ductwork. Replacing 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 reusable filter, the only cost is the water and work it takes to clean it.

For the most part, 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 maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as straightforward as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Total Assurance AC & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer extra features and may 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 has sprung a leak costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can 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 produced due to its effect on 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 Corpus Christi. We also serve local communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a wide 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 Total Assurance AC & Heating technician will review these parts across the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other components aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and 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 spreading the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts 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. Ductwork Repair

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

8. Diagnostics and Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently more expensive, but worth it to prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can discover and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unusual 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 reduces airflow. This can also be caused by 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. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it could be a smarter 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 its life span.

Your Total Assurance AC & Heating technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2010, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Corpus Christi and devotion to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 361-217-7080 today!

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