A quality air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, particularly when you live in Shamokin and Sunbury Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s go over some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the average 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. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can handle it without the help of a certified HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the type you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a reusable filter, the only cost is the water and effort 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 longer to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. An Error with Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you adjust your air conditioner. If something is malfunctioning with the thermostat, you could think there’s a problem with the AC system itself. Sometimes fixing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and can help you save money in the long run. Replacing 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.

In general, refreshing your supply of coolant is between $100 to $350, but this number can be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also called 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 Shamokin and Sunbury. We also serve nearby communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper 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 LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts are malfunctioning.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil holds the refrigerant and takes in 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. Clogged Drainage System

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 components 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. Repairing Broken Air Ducts

Without your ventilation, cool air cannot move through your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to prevent your cooling bills from increasing. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but might offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but usually runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Routine Maintenance

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

Emergency services are almost always more expensive, but worth it to lower the risk of interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an exceptional value, because we can find and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, expert technicians will offer detailed information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us determine the source of the problem.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
  • Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure prevents cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Repeated starting and stopping adds more 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 more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it might 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 time.

Your LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. technician will help you figure out the right choice. Since 1990, we’ve been known for our dependable, high-quality air conditioning repair in Shamokin and Sunbury and dedication to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 570-648-0748 today!

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