A trusted air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Marshalltown 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 median estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for every cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, keeping it from drifting into your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is quick 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 reusable 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 change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work harder to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly utility bills.

2. An Error with Your 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 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 Kapaun & Brown can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models offer additional features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

Typically, refreshing 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 known as Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its disruption of 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 suggest our air conditioning installation in Marshalltown. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a wide 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 Kapaun & Brown technician will review these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil houses the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

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

6. Clogged Drainage System

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. Ductwork Repair

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be addressed to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is pricier but might offer greatly improved energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s usually around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might 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 around $85 to $110. Enrolling in 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 find and fix problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer comprehensive information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve collected beforehand will help us identify 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 keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be a result of 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. Faulty components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it could 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 in the long run.

Your Kapaun & Brown technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1974, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Marshalltown and devotion to professional customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 641-812-2028 today!

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