A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Hudsonville 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 typical estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a central component for any cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating 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 type 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.

In general, 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 sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

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

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

Generally, replacing your supply of coolant is 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 effect on 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in Hudsonville. 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 affect a large range 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 West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services technician will examine these parts during the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or 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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Drainage Issues

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 parts 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. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move throughout 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 could offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance

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

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to minimize 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. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and handle problems quickly and inexpensively. This service can also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide thorough information about your cooling system. 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:

  • 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 reduces 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. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might be a wiser option to request 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 West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1986, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Hudsonville and devotion to the best possible customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at (616) 319-1436 today!

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