A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Delray Beach 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 go over some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a key component for every cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, preventing it from blowing into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a professional HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design 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.

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 more intensely 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 conditioner itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Kilbourne Heating & AC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models include extra features and might 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 transfers heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

On average, replacing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger 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 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 Delray Beach. 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 broad 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 Kilbourne Heating & AC technician will check these parts across the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses 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 diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are usually around $581 or higher, depending on your specific 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 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

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

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s usually within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are 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.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service may also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

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

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 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill exceeds $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 Kilbourne Heating & AC technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1986, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Delray Beach and commitment to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 561-287-7071 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.