A quality air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, specially when you live in Myrtle Beach Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is going to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the size and severity of the problem. Let’s go over 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 grabs dust and other debris, stopping it from moving through your HVAC ductwork. Exchanging or cleaning the filter is short and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a qualified HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the brand you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable filter, the only cost is the water and time 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 sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Polar Air & Mechanical can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will begin with the model you choose. Smart models include extra features and might help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Refrigerant Leak

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

In general, refreshing your supply of coolant costs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer manufactured due to its disruption of the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are eligible for use, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may suggest our air conditioning installation in Myrtle Beach. We also serve surrounding communities.

4. Bad Electrical Connections

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a wide range 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 Polar Air & Mechanical technician will examine these parts throughout the diagnosis to see if they’re the reason other systems are faulty.

5. Damage to Either the Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs anywhere from $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before dispelling the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are generally around $581 or higher, depending on your specific air conditioner.

6. Issues with the Drainage

If your air conditioner is suffering from drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected parts might 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 duct work, cool air cannot move throughout your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be repaired to prevent your cooling bills from going up. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is costlier but may offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but typically runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other various costs of a service call will depend on your location and local demand. It’s generally within $70–$200, which takes care of travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects are 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 prevent interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Average air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Enrolling in a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average fixed cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an extraordinary value, because we can spot and fix problems quickly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your chances of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, experienced technicians will offer detailed information about your air conditioning. In many cases, providing info you’ve gathered beforehand will help us figure out the source of the damage.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Annoying or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
  • Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork restricts airflow. This can also be a result of 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. Damaged components or clogs force your air conditioner to work longer. Watch your monthly bills for sudden increases.

If your repair bill exceeds $1,500, it may be a better option to schedule air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills over its life span.

Your Polar Air & Mechanical technician will help you settle on the right choice. Since 2022, we’ve been renowned for our trustworthy, high-quality air conditioning repair in Myrtle Beach and devotion to exemplary customer service. Arrange your appointment by calling us at 843-253-4874 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.