If you have an air conditioning unit that keeps breaking down in the middle of summer, you may want to invest in preventative maintenance. Usually, preventative maintenance will cost between $75 and $150, but it’s worth paying attention to the amount quoted. By doing preventative maintenance, you can catch problems early on and save yourself from a costly midsummer breakdown. In addition, most technicians will provide you with a quote that includes both labor and parts. You can also contact a professional like 32 Degrees Heating & Air for your AC maintenance.
There are many reasons that your air conditioner may need to be repaired, including clogged filters that need to be cleaned. More serious problems may require a full replacement of the system. A refrigerant top-up can be an inexpensive, easy-to-do maintenance job, but a full replacement can cost you an arm and a leg. In order to get a good idea of how much repair services will cost, keep reading this guide to auto air conditioning repair costs.
The most expensive part of an AC is its compressor. Replacing the compressor can cost as much as $300 or more. Depending on the extent of the problem, an AC repair can run into thousands of dollars. However, it’s worth it if the unit is working properly. If it isn’t, you might be stuck with a broken AC for a long time. You’ll probably be glad you did.
A simple air conditioning belt replacement will likely cost between $100 and $200. While this repair is not a big job, it should be performed as soon as you notice a squealing noise when the system is operating. A snapping belt can cause the system to stop cooling. Check your air conditioner’s belts regularly during its regular maintenance visits. If you notice any that have burned or otherwise seriously damaged, replace them right away.
The most common problem can be solved by replacing a component. Replaced components are generally covered by warranties, but if you don’t have one, you’ll have to purchase new parts. A thermostat costs between $20 and $40 and can range up to $250 for a wireless thermostat. Another component that requires replacement is a capacitor, which stores the electric charge used to start the system. Depending on the model, a capacitor replacement can cost anywhere from $100 to $400.
When an AC blower fails, the cost ranges from about $250 to $800. The blower motor works by rotating blades to push air through the AC system. When it fails, it may cause the unit to overheat, so the motor will need to be replaced. It can also be damaged by a physical impact or electrical overload. Lastly, a bad fan motor will affect the utility bill.
Homeowners can also choose to try their hand at DIY repairs, but be sure to use a licensed HVAC technician. Doing the repairs yourself can save you money, but you run the risk of damaging the unit or causing it to break down prematurely. DIY maintenance can also damage the HVAC system, reduce its efficiency, and void your warranty. So, it’s important to use a professional if you need repair work to save money.
