Most homeowners rely on air conditioners to keep their homes cool and comfortable during summer. But what happens when your air conditioner breaks down? While trying to fix the problem yourself may be tempting, it’s always best to leave air conditioning repairs to the professionals. Here, you’ll learn about the most common causes of air conditioner breakdowns and how much it typically costs to repair them.
Additionally, if your air conditioner is older, consider replacing it with a new, more environmentally friendly one. Also, consider adding insulation to your home to reduce the amount of energy needed to cool it. Insulation can help keep cool air inside your home during the summer, reducing the load on your air conditioner. By taking these steps, you can help reduce the environmental impact of your air conditioning and save on energy costs.
Common Problems that Require AC Repair & Average Cost Estimates for Each
Overall, the cost of AC repair can vary widely depending on the severity and type of issue. It is important to schedule regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Refrigerant Leak
Home AC systems can use one of two types of refrigerants: R-22 (Freon) and R-410A (Puron). A refrigerant leak can lead to increased energy bills, reduced cooling capacity, and damage to the compressor.
Freon is no longer being made in or imported into the U.S. The production and use of Freon contribute to climate change, ozone depletion, and increased air pollution.
However, many older systems still use this refrigerant. You cannot put a different kind of refrigerant into an AC that uses Freon. If your aging system is leaking Freon, your HVAC technician may be able to find recovered or recycled Freon. Better still, consider replacing your aging cooling system with a newer, more energy efficient one.
A leak in your air conditioner’s refrigerant line can cause the unit to lose its ability to cool your home effectively. A refrigerant leak can also cause your air conditioner to make strange noises or produce unusual smells. It’s important to address a leak immediately, as it can damage your air conditioner’s compressor and other components. Refrigerant is harmful to people and can cause headaches and irritate eyes and the respiratory tract.
Refrigerant leaks can occur for several reasons. Sometimes, it’s caused by age and wear and time. Over time, your air conditioner’s coils and lines can become corroded or damaged, leading to leaks.
This type of leak can also be caused by poor installation. If your air conditioner wasn’t installed properly, it could be more prone to refrigerant leaks. Still, at other times, if your air conditioner suffers physical damage, it could cause a leak.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak in your air conditioner, it’s essential to contact an HVAC professional. A professional can safely locate and repair the leak, recharge your air conditioner, and ensure your unit runs efficiently. Regular maintenance can also help prevent refrigerant leaks from occurring in the first place, so be sure to schedule annual tune-ups.
Repairing a refrigerant leak ranges from $160 to $1,000 or more. But if your air conditioner uses Freon, you may need to replace the entire system.
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems in an air conditioner can be caused by faulty wiring or damaged electrical components such as the capacitor or compressor. The average cost of electrical repairs ranges from $75 to $400.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
This issue is often caused by a lack of airflow over the evaporator coils. It can lead to reduced cooling and increased energy bills. Depending on the root cause, the cost of repairing this issue ranges from $160 to $500.
Clogged Condensate Drain Line
A blocked condensate drain line can lead to water damage and mold growth. The average cost of repairing a clogged drain line ranges from $75 to $250.
Broken Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the air conditioner not to turn on or off properly. It can also lead to irregular cooling cycles. Repairing a broken thermostat ranges from $100 to $300.
Faulty Capacitor
A faulty capacitor can cause the air conditioner’s motor to not start or run properly. The average cost of repairing a faulty capacitor ranges from $100 to $350.
When to Call a Professional Technician
If your air conditioner is blowing warm air, making strange noises, or just not working as well as it used to, there could be a problem. But before you call a technician, there are a few things you can check yourself to try to diagnose the issue.
First, make sure that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature. If you have central AC and heat, make sure it is switched to the cooling cycle. Also, check to see if your air filter needs replacing. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to.
If your air conditioner is still not working properly after checking these things, then it’s time to call a professional technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and get your AC up and running again in no time.
Here are some clear signals that you need to call a professional AC technician:
- Strange or loud noises coming from the AC unit
- Uneven cold or hot spots in your home
- Unusual odors coming from the AC unit or vents
- Increased energy bills without a change in usage
- AC unit constantly cycles on and off
- Poor airflow from vents
It’s important to address AC problems immediately to prevent further damage and ensure efficient cooling. Regular maintenance and tune-ups can also prevent future issues and prolong the life of your AC unit.
How to Ensure Your AC System Is Operating Optimally
First and foremost, change the air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and put unnecessary strain on your AC unit. It’s recommended to change them every three months. However, if you have pets, live in a dusty environment, have a smoker in the home, or experience wildfire smoke in your area, you should change them more often.
It’s also crucial to keep the area around your outdoor AC unit clear. Also, make sure there’s nothing blocking the air vents inside the home.
Contact the Professionals
Considering an air conditioning system is prone to wear and tear, it requires maintenance occasionally to help prevent breakdowns. If your AC breaks down, the repair costs will vary depending on factors such as unit size and the type of repairs to be carried out. If your system is aging or breaking down frequently, consider switching to a newer, more efficient, eco-friendly option. This can save you money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
For reliable AC repair services in Ronkonkoma, NY and the surrounding area, Cool Power LLC is at your service. Our team of professionals offers repair, installation, and maintenance services. To learn more about the services we offer and AC repair costs, contact Cool Power LLC today.
