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

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for any cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a certified 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 work 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 harder to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Air-Right Energy Design can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models offer additional features and could help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it transfers heat out of your home. If it’s cracked costs may include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Generally, replacing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Manassas. 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 wide 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 Air-Right Energy Design technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts can’t function normally.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains 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 often around $581 or higher, depending on your particular 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 components 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but can offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups

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

Emergency services are frequently 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $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 fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable 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 prevents 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 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 harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might be a smarter 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 Air-Right Energy Design technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 1994, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Manassas and devotion to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 703-260-1148 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.