A dependable air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Chelan and Wenatchee Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the extensiveness and severity of the problem. Let’s review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a central component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle 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 cleanable 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 change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy 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 could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Lakeside Heating & Air can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer additional features and might help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a vital part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Generally, replacing your supply of coolant runs 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 in production due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Chelan and Wenatchee. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components consist of 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 Lakeside Heating & Air technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other systems can’t function normally.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and absorbs 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 usually around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

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 components 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

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

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may 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 rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can discover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us determine the source of the damage.

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 prevents cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might be a wiser 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 Lakeside Heating & Air technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 2001, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Chelan and Wenatchee and dedication to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 509-284-4265 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.