A trusted air conditioner is one of the most vital parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Manassas Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope 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. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for a cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is fast and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a qualified 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.

Generally, 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 hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Fire & Ice HVAC can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models provide useful features and might 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 absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s has sprung a leak costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Most of the time, replacing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, 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 Manassas. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Electrical Issues

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a large 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 Fire & Ice HVAC technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to learn if they’re the reason other systems aren’t working.

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 anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispersing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally around $581 or higher, depending on your particular air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

If your air conditioner is dealing 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. Ductwork Repair

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move within your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to stop your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but can offer greatly enhanced energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but most often runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Tune-Ups

The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects for consideration are labor and parts, which are generally flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are almost always 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average rigid cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an extraordinary value, because we can find and fix problems promptly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will share thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us find 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 keeps 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. Lots of 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill goes over $1,500, it might be a smarter 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 Fire & Ice HVAC technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since , we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Manassas and dedication to professional customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 703-595-4157 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.