A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Sandpoint 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, preventing it from blowing throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast 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 design 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 work it takes to clean it.

Typically, 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. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you use your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as easy as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Age Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with 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 crucial part of your air conditioner because it transfers 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 larger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Sandpoint. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can reach a broad 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 Age Heating & Cooling technician will take a look at these parts throughout 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 houses the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

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 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but could offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are 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 prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can discover and take care of problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will share comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us identify the source of the trouble.

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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra 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 longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might be a better option to request 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 Age Heating & Cooling technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2022, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Sandpoint and devotion to exemplary customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 208-603-2210 today!

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