If you find that your AC unit hums but doesn’t cool your home, turn the breaker that supplies power to the system off and call for immediate service.
Comfort Pro’s Heat and Air can inspect the equipment, clean it, and repair the necessary components. They can also add refrigerant (R410A or R22) if required. Air conditioning repair costs vary by company, parts, project complexity, and more. It also varies depending on the type of AC unit you have. Window air conditioners, for example, tend to cost less than central air conditioners to repair or replace.
The first step in air conditioning repair is for a professional to diagnose the problem. That is typically done by visiting the home and looking at the system. The technician will then provide an estimate based on their findings. That includes the service call fee and the flat rate the air conditioning company charges to send someone to your house.
This fee usually runs between $75 and $200 (CAD 100 to CAD 260).
Once the diagnosis has been made, the repairs can begin. These can be as simple as recharging the refrigerant to something more complex, such as fixing a leak in the coils. Leaks can occur because of corrosion or holes in the evaporator and condenser coils. With proper maintenance, your AC can stay cool and cool properly.
Other common problems include clogged condensate drain lines and fan blades. Clogged drain lines can lead to water damage in your home, while a dirty or malfunctioning fan blade can reduce the efficiency of your unit. A new fan motor may also be necessary if the old one is beyond saving or is damaged by corrosion or other issues.
Often, it’s best to avoid major repairs and replacements by scheduling a yearly maintenance appointment with your HVAC professional. They will clean and tune up your air conditioning unit for a small fee. That will ensure that all the components are working properly and may help you save money in the long run.
Ask for referrals and compare prices before hiring a company to perform air conditioning repair. Choose a company that is licensed, insured, and bonded. They should be a member of the Better Business Bureau and have positive reviews on Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. In addition, they should be EPA Section 608 certified to handle refrigerants.
An air conditioning repair professional will determine which parts of your system require replacement. This information will have a major impact on the total cost of your repairs, so make sure to get a pro who can identify the exact problem with your unit and accurately estimate how much it should cost to fix it.
The type of system you have can also significantly impact how much your repairs will cost. For example, central air units are usually more expensive to fix than ductless mini-splits or window and portable systems. That is because these larger systems have more components than their smaller counterparts, which can cause them to break down more often and cost more to repair when they do.
If your AC is only blowing cool air at a slower pace, this could be a sign that you have a clogged air filter or frozen evaporator coils. In many cases, these problems can be solved by cleaning your ducts or replacing the air filters. However, if the issue is more severe, such as a broken motor, you may be better off upgrading to a new unit.
Another common problem that can result in high AC repair costs is a capacitor that fails to start your system. Capacitors are tiny devices that provide the kickstart of electricity that all other AC components need to turn on and run. Capacitors can easily break down because they are subjected to much heat. Replacing these devices is an easy and affordable AC repair that can help you save on your energy bills.
After assessing your system, your technician will likely have a list of recommended fixes and upgrades. Some of these fixes may be essential, while others are nice-to-haves that can improve comfort and reduce energy bills. Discuss all of the options thoroughly with your technician before making any decisions.
Some AC repair technicians offer financing to help their clients afford their repairs. Taking advantage of this option can save you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in repair costs. If you can’t use installer financing, you can always buy personal loans or credit cards to repair your air conditioner.
The decision to repair or replace an air conditioning unit often comes down to how satisfied you are with the performance of your system. Air conditioners are typically rated to last between 10 and 15 years, but when repairs are extensive, or the cost of air conditioning service is high, it may be time for an upgrade. New HVAC systems offer new functions, energy efficiency upgrades, and a warranty. If you’re considering selling your home shortly, a new system can boost its resale value.
A major sign that it’s time to consider replacement is an energy bill that rises dramatically without extra usage. A clogged drain line, rodent nests, or other electrical problems might cause this issue. In most cases, a professional must inspect the unit and make any necessary repairs.
Another factor is how often you must call for an air conditioner service. It’s usually more cost-effective to replace a system when the total cost of repairs is close to 50% of its value. Many professionals use the “5,000 rule,” which generally estimates when it makes more sense to replace a system than to continue investing in expensive repair work.
One common reason for replacing an air conditioning system is when the compressor or fan motor goes out. The condenser fan can be easy to replace, but if the compressor is old or has been repaired several times, it might be time for an entirely new system.
It’s also important to remember that when you replace one component of an air conditioner, you should consider replacing both the compressor and air handler to ensure that your system is properly matched and operating as efficiently as possible. Installing one of these components can lead to performance issues, energy efficiency losses, and other problems that could be avoided with a complete system replacement.
Before you begin a repair or replacement project, turn off the power to your air conditioning system. That includes shutting off the breaker at the circuit box and the furnace switch. Next, remove the access panel by removing the retaining screws and carefully releasing and storing the screwdriver. Once the board is removed, you can check for electrical connections and wires that need reconnected or replaced.
Whether your new or old AC unit can benefit from routine maintenance, it will work more efficiently and last longer when your system is maintained. It will also help to keep your energy bills down. During regular maintenance, a technician will check the different parts of your air conditioning system to ensure they are in good working order. That will include ensuring the evaporator coils are clean and removing any debris. The technician will also check the refrigerant level to ensure it is where it should be.
Air conditioners that are not properly maintained can cause many problems, including leaks and poor performance. If you have a newer air conditioning unit, it may be possible to repair these issues without replacing the entire team. However, older systems may be more difficult to repair and will likely require a replacement. It is always best to fix a problem early before it becomes an emergency.
Keeping your air conditioning system in good working condition can improve the comfort of your home and increase its value. Potential buyers will see it as a sign that the house was well-maintained and cared for.
Air conditioning maintenance can also minimize the likelihood of unwanted pests entering your home. Pests like flies, gnats, moths, and wasps are attracted to cool air in homes and will take any opportunity to sneak inside. When you have a poorly maintained air conditioning unit, the cool air will allow these pests to enter and damage your home. That can lead to expensive repairs and even destroy your home’s structure.
A routine maintenance inspection will allow a technician to inspect your AC equipment and replace worn-out parts before they break down. The review will also look for any signs of rodents or birds nesting in the unit. The technician will also check the electrical connections and replace any blown fuses. In addition, the technician will check the fan blades and the condensate drain for any build-up that can affect the performance of your unit.
