What you need to know about AC repair costs

by Team HomeServe |
Cost to Fix Home

An AC unit is a big investment. A new central ac unit can cost anywhere between $3,250 to $13,000 with installation. In order to preserve that investment, professionals encourage their clients to schedule regular HVAC maintenance for your HVAC system. Home repairs are going to be necessary down the road, and air conditioner repair costs vary. In order to help you understand the rates you may be given, here is a guide to AC repair costs.

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Faulty Circuit Breakers, Relays or Fuses

The average cost is $30 to $300 for these parts. If you notice that the AC unit is having electrical issues, the culprit could be faulty circuit breakers, relays or fuses. The source could be the main panel. Once an HVAC contractor takes a look, they can tell you if a repair is necessary or if it is something that requires a replacement.

Freon Leak Fix

The average cost to fix a Freon leak is $200 to $1,000. When there are holes or corrosion on the coils where the refrigerant lives, leaks occur. The refrigerant is important for an AC. If the level is too low, the air may not be properly cooled off. In order to prevent further damage to the unit, the leak must be repaired as well as the coils.

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Refrigerant Recharge

The average cost is between $200 and $500. An air conditioner’s refrigerant level should never be too low. The process a professional uses to refill it is known as a refrigerant recharge. So, the AC recharge cost is the refill, which requires specialized equipment and skills.

Thermostat Replacement

The average cost to replace a thermostat is $100 to $400. It is important that your thermostat always be as close to accurate as possible. Programmable thermostats can be off by up to five degrees. If you notice that your AC unit is running too long or not long enough, the thermostat may be in need of repair.

After an inspection, a technician will go over their findings and home AC repair costs. In some cases, it may be best to replace the thermostat, for example. If your current thermostat is an older model, it could be worth your while to make the upgrade to a smart thermostat instead of repairing the older model. Smart thermostats have an error rate of as little as half a degree. Plus, they offer several benefits such as setting up your settings and preferences as well as improved energy efficiency.

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Additionally, HVAC professionals believe that a smart thermostat can extend the life of your current air conditioner unit.

AC Compressor Replacement

AC compressor replacement can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000. When you turn on your AC and you hear it go through the motions but no output is produced, the ac compressor may be in need of repair. Every part of an AC system is important. The ac compressor, however, is particularly important. This is the heart of an AC unit. If it is not operating correctly, your air will not be cooled. You will hear the unit turn on, and you will hear the fans run. However, there will be no cold air output.

In some cases, it is more cost-effective to replace the compressor than to repair it. In other cases, it is more cost-effective to replace the AC unit. A technician who examines your unit will be able to give you more information. He will outline your options, too.

Condensing Components Repairs

The average cost for repairs to the AC condensing components is $200 to $400. The condensing unit includes the fan and pump. Sometimes the fan gives out. Other times the pump gives. Once these components stop operating as intended, it is best to replace them. The cost you are going to incur is for the part and the service call. Those who are handy with a screwdriver and can follow instructions might be tempted to complete the replacement as a DIY project. Our advice is it’s always best to utilize the services of a professional.

Professional HVAC technicians can complete the repair or replacement. They will also test the unit and get it as close to the manufacturer's settings as possible. This gives the AC unit the opportunity to reach its expected lifespan.

Evaporator Coil Repair

The average cost of an evaporator coil is $700 to $1,500. Since the refrigerant runs through the coil as a liquid and gas, the coil is a prime target for bacterial growth and corrosion. To keep the AC unit running and the indoor air quality of your home healthy, it is important that the coils be repaired in a timely manner.

Service Call

Service calls can cost from $100 to $200. When you know that your air conditioning unit is not operating correctly, an HVAC technician can come to your home and take a look. In most cases, you are going to incur a service call charge. Then, you will be given an AC repair estimate. The air conditioning repair costs are based on the technician's findings.

AC Emergency Repair

The average cost for an AC emergency varies. The AC emergency repair cost is going to vary based on demand and urgency. There will be the service call fee as well as the costs of the labor and parts. Emergency HVAC services are often more cost-effective when you pay for a home repair plan.

To protect your cooling system from breakdowns, it’s a good idea to be prepared with an HVAC plan from HomeServe. With a plan, you can avoid the stress and worry associated with pricey HVAC repairs. See what plans are available in your area.

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