A quality air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in The Bay Area Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s review 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 vital component for a cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a licensed 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 time it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t do so frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes resolving the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from Contra Costa Heating & AC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models come with useful 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 absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

In general, replacing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is larger 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 eligible for use, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in The Bay Area. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

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 Contra Costa Heating & AC technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to determine if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Evaporator and 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 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 particular air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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 systems can 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 through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Routine Maintenance

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

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and handle problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will offer comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out the source of the trouble.

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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $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 over time.

Your Contra Costa Heating & AC technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1970, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in The Bay Area and commitment to the best possible customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 510-343-9841 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.