A trusted air conditioner is one of the most crucial parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Rapid City Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is anticipated to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope 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. Air Filter

The air filter is a key component for your cooling system. It traps dust and other debris, keeping it from circulating throughout your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can do it without the help of a certified HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the design 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 effort it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work more intensely to hold the set temperature. This can increase your monthly energy bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you control your air conditioner. If something is faulty with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as simple as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t resolve the problem, an HVAC technician from Precision Mechanical can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models provide added features and may help you save money in the long run. Switching out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

Most of the time, refreshing your supply of coolant will run between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is bigger or uses R-22. Also called Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are used now, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner requires R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may point you toward our air conditioning installation in Rapid City. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components include the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can influence a broad variety 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 Precision Mechanical technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts aren’t working.

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 diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are typically around $581 or higher, depending on your model of air conditioner.

6. Clogged Drainage System

If your air conditioner is dealing with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems may 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. Damage to the Ventilation

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 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 generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Diagnostics and Tune-Ups

The other likely costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s generally around $70–$200, which covers travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are usually flat rates. Labor might 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.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs around $85 to $110. Participating in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our maintenance plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and handle problems quickly and inexpensively. This service could also reduce your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will provide extensive information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us uncover 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 hampers airflow. This can also be caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Lots of starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work more intensely. Watch your monthly bills for sudden spikes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a wiser option to request air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over time.

Your Precision Mechanical technician will help you make the right choice. Since 2006, we’ve been famous for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Rapid City and commitment to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 605-206-3766 today!

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