A dependable air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Port St. Lucie Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size 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. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a vital component for your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, preventing it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a trained 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 effort it takes to clean it.

In general, 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. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Custom Air Systems Inc can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and may help you save money in the long run. Replacing your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

In general, replacing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number may be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer produced 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 point you toward our air conditioning installation in Port St. Lucie. We also serve local communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect 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 Custom Air Systems Inc technician will check these parts during the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other components are malfunctioning.

5. The Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $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. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems might 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 taken care of to stop your cooling bills from increasing. 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 most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Routine Maintenance

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor might 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 fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can discover and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will offer detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us figure out the source of the problem.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Annoying or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
  • Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds more 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 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 in the long run.

Your Custom Air Systems Inc technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1974, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Port St. Lucie and commitment to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 772-247-2283 today!

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