What You Need to Know About AC Repair Costs
When the signs of air conditioner problems started to show around this time last year, I had to throw my procrastination tendencies out the window and get on that repair as soon as possible. I didn't want it to turn into a more serious issue - especially as the temps were gradually rising.
If your cooling system starts to act up, here are the air conditioning repair costs to expect:
The average costs
The national average for air conditioner repair costs is $225, according to Fixr. Of course, that cost can vary depending on various factors, like: the source of the problem, replacement part costs and labor required to fix the issue.
Here’s what Fixr and HouseLogic quote as the average costs of common types of AC repairs:
- Professional inspection and tune-up: $75 to $100.
- Unclog the drain or coils: $70 to $100.
- Install a new condensate pump: $40 to $260.
- Replace blower motor: $150 to $175.
- Repair refrigerant leak: $300 to $400.
- Replace circuit boards: $130 to $620.
- Install a new compressor: $600 to $2,000.
Remember that the total air conditioner repair bill can include the cost of replacement parts as well as the service fees for the technician performing the repair. According to Thumbtack, the national average for an AC repair service is $35 to $95 an hour. However, some HVAC professionals may charge a flat rate for the project depending on the type or complexity of the repair. Service fees may also be higher for emergency cooling repairs that occur during the height of the season or beyond the technician's working hours.
Learn More About Home Warranty Plans Near You
The repair or replace conundrum
Sometimes an air conditioner replacement is needed. HomeGuide estimates that buying and installing a new AC system generally costs homeowners $2,400 and $6,000. With a price tag that high, you may be inclined to think making a repair is the right decision. However, there are times when investing in a new system may be a better decision.
For instance, you'll want to consider the current state of your unit when choosing to repair or replace your air conditioner. Units that are beyond the 15-year mark usually don't have much efficiency left in them, which means you could be stuck with many more repairs and higher utility bills in the near future. HouseLogic suggests replacing your unit if the total cost to repair works out to be 50% higher than the price of a new air conditioner.
Once your air conditioning is providing that cool relief once again, keep these energy-efficiency tips in mind to make sure everything is running efficiently as possible. Performing preventative HVAC maintenance can also help to extend the life of your cooling system.
See how plans from TotalHome Warranty by HomeServe can help with the costs of covered appliance and home system repairs.
