Few things are as frustrating as living through a hot Florida summer day when your air conditioner breaks down. When you experience an AC problem, the first thing many homeowners think about is repair costs. Air conditioners have several different parts, so depending on the issue, repair costs differ. With that in mind, the team at Fast Air Repair is here to answer the question: “What is the most expensive repair on an air conditioner?”
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Most Expensive AC Repair Issues
Manufacturers have invented several different types of air conditioners throughout history, but the basic premise of how they work remains the same. The core components of an air conditioner include a compressor, fan, coils, and coolant, so major repairs usually involve a problem with one of these four.
Compressor Repair
Your air conditioner’s compressor is responsible for pressurizing coolant that extracts and transfers heat. In that sense, the compressor is possibly the single most important component of your air conditioner and the most expensive repair on an air conditioner. An air conditioner compressor can cost up to $3,000 or more to replace. Compressor replacement costs are also usually higher for two-stage and variable air-speed air conditioners because they are more mechanically complex.
The high costs of compressor repair can often mean that replacement may be the more financially smart decision. As a general rule of thumb, if the compressor repair cost is more than 50% of the replacement cost, you should opt for a new unit. A new HVAC unit will cost more upfront but will have fewer breakdowns and repair issues.
Coil Repair
AC coils are another important component that contains the coolant fluid. Pressurized coolant fluid from the compressor pushes through the evaporator coil and extracts the heat HVAC systems draw in from outside. So, air conditioners are much less efficient when the coils are dirty or damaged. Despite the name, AC coils do not usually look like coils but like a rectangular block with metal fins and rivets across the surface.
A common air conditioner issue is dirty coils. Dirt and dust buildup reduces the coil’s surface area, so it can’t cool air as efficiently. Dirt and dust can also cause your coils to frost over and your AC unit to leak water. That is why coil cleaning is one of the key parts of regular AC maintenance.
You can clean your coils yourself using a soft-bristled brush and gentle dish soap. Make sure you brush in the direction of the individual coil fins so you don’t bend and damage them. An evaporator or condenser replacement coil can cost up to $2,000 for parts and installation.
Fan Repair
All air conditioners have a fan that draws air through the compressor and distributes air through your ventilation. As such, one of the most obvious signs of a broken fan is low or no airflow. AC fan motors can seize and rust from excess moisture or break from routine wear and tear. Replacing an air conditioner’s fan and fan motor can cost between $1,000 and $1,500, including parts and labor costs.
Coolant Leak Repair
Air conditioners have a closed refrigerant system, so you should never need to replace or top off the refrigerant. If your coolant levels are low, you have a leak and will need to repair it. Refrigerant leaks can be due to a bent pipe or a broken coolant pump, so repair costs can vary between a few hundred and a thousand dollars. Coolant top-offs usually cost about $200, but you will need an expert to access and refill your coolant lines.
How To Avoid Expensive AC Repairs
Most homeowners will experience some kind of breakdown or air conditioner repair issue at some point—it’s a game of numbers at a certain point. However, homeowners can perform several preventative maintenance tasks to extend their system’s lifespan and protect against expensive repair issues.
- Schedule regular HVAC maintenance at least once yearly, preferably every six months. Regular professional tune-ups keep your system working optimally, and an AC technician can identify and fix potential issues before they cause extensive damage.
- Get in the habit of visually inspecting your AC unit and ductwork. Look for things like holes or loose components so you can fix them before they progress further.
- Replace your AC filters at least once every six months. Clogged filters increase the strain and pressure on your system, so it consumes more energy. Make sure you use filters with the appropriate MERV rating for your system.
- If need be, consider installing a separate dehumidifier unit. Beverly Hills has high humidity year-round, and excess humidity can damage your unit.
- Trim and remove grass and vegetation near outdoor units. Grass clippings and weeds can clog outdoor unit vents, causing system breakdowns.
- Clean your drain lines regularly. You can flush AC drain lines with a simple warm water and vinegar solution. Professionals should also clean your drain lines during routine maintenance.
- Vacuum your home more regularly, especially if you have pets like dogs and cats. Dust and pet dander can clog your vents and filters, increasing system pressure and strain.
- If able, install a programmable thermostat. Programmable and smart thermostats let you set heating and cooling schedules so you can be more efficient and reduce system wear and tear.
Professional HVAC Service in Beverly Hills, FL
So, what is the most expensive repair on an air conditioner? The answer is it depends. You need a reliable expert who can diagnose and fix your issues promptly. Whether you need furnace repair or want to install a new air conditioner, Fast Air Repair can guarantee a fair and affordable price. Contact us online or give us a call today at 352-234-4701 to schedule AC repair in Beverly Hills!