A dependable air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Cedar Rapids Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going 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. Routine Air Filter Replacement

The air filter is a central component for a cooling system. It catches dust and other debris, stopping it from moving throughout your HVAC ductwork. Changing or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a qualified HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable 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 change yours frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t take care of the problem, an HVAC technician from Ilten's can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide additional features and may help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

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

In general, replenishing your supply of coolant will run 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 manufactured due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Cedar Rapids. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad 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 Ilten's technician will inspect these parts throughout the diagnosis to figure out if they’re the reason other systems are malfunctioning.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and absorbs 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 type of air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

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 may 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. Broken Ductwork

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

8. Service Calls and Tune-Ups

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

Emergency services are usually more expensive, but worth it to prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and take care of problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service can also lower your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

When Is Replacement Better than Repairing My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will provide thorough information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered 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 stops cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds more 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 changes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a smarter option to schedule 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 Ilten's technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1892, we’ve been famous for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Cedar Rapids and dedication to professional customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 319-208-2351 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.