A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Chadron Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely 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 your cooling system. It grabs dust and other debris, keeping it from blowing through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of 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 labor it takes to clean it.

Generally, 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. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t fix the problem, an HVAC technician from MPC Heating & Cooling can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with added features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

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

On average, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Known by the more popular name Freon, R-22 is no longer in production due to its harm to 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 recommend our air conditioning installation in Chadron. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components contain the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can affect a wide 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 MPC Heating & Cooling technician will examine these parts across the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other parts can’t function normally.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and soaks up the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs around $675–$1,300.

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

6. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is struggling 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 air ducts, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be fixed to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly improved 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 likely costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor may 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.

Quality air conditioning maintenance runs between $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our protection plan is an outstanding value, because we can discover and handle problems swiftly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer extensive information about your cooling system. 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:

  • Annoying 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 hampers airflow. This can also be a result of 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a better option to arrange for 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 MPC Heating & Cooling technician will help you make the right choice. Since 1919, we’ve been renowned for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Chadron and commitment to the best possible customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 308-832-4321 today!

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