A trusted air conditioner is one of the most productive parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Melbourne 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. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for every cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a licensed 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 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 harder to maintain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

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

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

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is larger or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its harm to the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, 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 Melbourne. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence 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 The Chilly Pig technician will inspect these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other components are faulty.

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 diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your type of air conditioner.

6. Drainage Issues

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 components 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

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

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s typically between $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might 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 between $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can spot and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your odds of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer thorough information about your air conditioner. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us find the source of the damage.

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 caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated 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 is more than $1,500, it may be a better 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 The Chilly Pig technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2011, we’ve been renowned for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Melbourne and devotion to exemplary customer service. Request your appointment by calling us at 321-205-1234 today!

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