When there’s a problem with your AC, especially in the hot summer months, you want to get it fixed right away. After all, no one wants to turn their home into a sauna for a few days. We certainly rely on our AC and may have even taken it for granted at times. When problems happen, you want to be aware of how much an AC repair will cost, so you have a ballpark figure of what to expect when it breaks down.
Having a problem with your AC is an unexpected event on its own. Don’t be surprised by how much those HVAC repairs cost. An HVAC repair contractor isn’t going to provide an estimate over the phone. They will first need to visit your home and inspect the system to find out what the problem is. Once they have identified the source of the problem, they should be able to go over what needs to be done to fix your AC unit.
What are the signs my AC Unit needs repair?
Your AC is a complicated piece of equipment that needs an expert to fix most problems you might encounter. There are some signs you should look out for that could indicate something is wrong with your AC. Catching warning signs before they snowball into a bigger problem or a complete AC shutdown can save you money and the discomfort of sitting in a hot home.
There is warm air blowing out of your vents
Check your thermostat if you notice there’s warm air coming out of the vents. Your unit might be on heating or fan mode, which may cause warm air to blow. Set it to a lower temperature so that you can check to ensure it’s no longer blowing warm air. If it is, then there might be a compressor issue, or restricted airflow might be the problem.
Your AC is cycling frequently
Your cooling cycles should be fairly routine regardless of what the weather conditions happen to be. Of course, your unit will turn itself on more often during the summer and during the hotter days. But this doesn’t mean that it should constantly cycle on and off. This could indicate your AC needs a tune-up or a replacement.
The airflow is not efficient
If you have poor airflow, there might be something that is blocking the ductwork in your home. A broken motor or clogged air filter are also potential reasons for poor airflow. Investing in an energy-recovery ventilator might be worthwhile if you have constant problems with airflow in your home. It will exchange the stale air that’s going into your system when it cycles and replace it with fresh air.
You are hearing strange noises
Low-level noises when an AC starts up or shuts down are common. But loud or unusual noises are indicators that something is wrong. You might have a loose part if you’re hearing a buzzing or rattling noise. Something more serious could be wrong if there’s grinding or whistling noises. A tune-up might be necessary in this situation to identify what is going on.
Humidity is high
Your home shouldn’t feel as humid inside as it is outside. Your AC should automatically be doing this for you. You might need to have your AC re-calibrated, or you should consider a dehumidifier to help.
What is the average cost of home AC repair?
The costs to repair your home AC will depend on what the specific issue is. Here a list of AC repairs and the range that each will typically cost from an HVAC contractor.
- Condensate drain tube replacement: $20
- Condensate drain pump replacement: $240 – $450
- Drip pan replacement: $250 – $575
- Drain line flush: $75 – $250
- Refrigerant Recharge: $250 – $750
- Refrigerant Leak: $200 – $1,500
- Control Circuit Boards: $100 – $590
- Thermostat (new): $115 – $470
- Fuses, relays or circuit breakers: $75 – $290
- Condensing unit fan motor (outdoor): $200 – $650
- Compressor replacement: $1900
- Condenser coil replacement: $1900 – $2900
Heating and cooling contractors usually charge a service fee for repair calls. This fee covers the costs of labor and overhead that are incurred when a technician must come out to your home for a system inspection. The amount of this service fee varies by contractor, but it is usually around $50 to $100. During after-business hours, holidays, and weekends, you can expect to pay a higher service fee.
Paying for an AC repair usually happens without much warning, which does not give you much time to be financially prepared. But you and your family can’t be without a cool home especially in the summer months.
Discuss options with your AC repair contractor about how they might be able to make the repair more affordable. Many of them have financing options and payment plans that are intended to help customers in this situation. You will want help to get your AC repaired so you can stay comfortable and safe while in your home.
How to choose the right AC repair contractor
When looking for the right AC repair contractor, it’s ideal that you select one that specializes in HVAC services. These contractors will be able to serve you better because they focus on one area of household repair services versus others who may offer more (i.e. plumbing).
Make sure you know the model of your unit and whether it’s still under warranty. You should call the manufacturer first. If you don’t have the information you need, then it’s time to start doing your research. Look for a contractor that has a track record of positive reviews. They should also be fully licensed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
Contact AC repair specialists today
If you think you have a problem with your AC, call the experts at Presidential Heating and Air Conditioning. We’re here to help identify the problem, offer professional advice on AC repair cost, and get it solved so you and your family can be comfortable in your home. Schedule a consultation today for a free estimate.