We can face extreme temperatures in South Florida during the summertime, so having a broken air conditioning unit may be the last thing homeowners want to deal with. At Cousin's Air we understand how unsettling it can be, having a stranger visit your home and not knowing how much an AC repair may cost you, but at Cousin's Air we want to walk you through what to expect when one of our Comfort Consultant knocks on your door. We can also explain a few of the most common services so you’re never caught off guard.
At Cousin's Air, all of our consultants are NATE certified, having been tested through rigorous, knowledge-based tests to validate each technician and earn installation and/or service certification. Our Comfort Consultants are here to examine the issue and help you understand the options and best available solutions. We will speak with you and examine your home to see if you or your family has been experiencing any hot or cold spots or any discomfort. Following a routine inspection, our Comfort Consultant will provide you with a free estimate that is customized for your home and in the future, you can even request to have that same technician service your ac unit every time.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair Your AC?
The unsatisfying answer is that it depends. Repair costs will vary widely depending on the specific problem with your unit, its age, the cost of replacement parts, and the amount of labor required to fix the issue. Since repair costs can be so wide-ranging, you will need to weigh your options and determine if it is more financially prudent to replace your unit entirely. There are two schools of thought that can help you with this decision:
- The 50 Percent Rule: If the cost to repair your existing unit is estimated to be more than 50% of the current depreciated value of your system, it is likely time to replace your unit.
- The $5,000 Rule: Take the cost of your repairs and multiply it by your air conditioning system's age. If this number exceeds $5,000, consider replacing your system.
Again, while air conditioning repair costs will vary, most repairs have a general range. If you know the specific issue with your unit, the following section can help you estimate how much it will cost to have it fixed.
Common AC Issues & Their Repair Costs
Air conditioning units can face a variety of complications, so we want to walk you through a few of the more common dilemmas.
A/C Circuit Board Replacement
If the issue is past the A/C system itself, you may have to replace the circuit board. A new circuit board, on average, could cost anywhere from $120-$600 depending on the A/C make or model. That may seem like a long range, but on national average an A/C circuit board replacement in 2016 cost consumers $375, according to AC and Refrigeration.
Thermostat Replacement
Depending on the type of thermostat you select, a smart wifi thermostat or traditional, the average cost paid is typically between $65-$260 to get it installed. Newer thermostats can pay back in energy savings.
Refrigerant Leak Detection & Repair
If suspected, a technician will test for a refrigerant leak. According to Home Advisor, should a leak be present, the repair, on average, can cost between $225-$1,600. A refrigerant leak is not common, but can be among the issues that’ll cost the most to have repaired; the national average of a leak detection and repair last year was $942.50.
A/C Refrigerant Refill
Your air conditioner can begin to work improperly due to needing a Freon refill. A refill is a complicated process and can require special licensing to work with refrigerant, so you should have a professional check it out. Luckily a refill cost isn’t extreme. The national average is marked up at $290, but typically can range from $170-$410.
Replace Fuse, Circuit Breakers or Relays
If you suspect any damages to your AC fuse, circuit breakers or relays, you should contact a Comfort Consultant for a quick inspection. Pricing for a replacement can vary depending on the damages and if just one or all need replacement. Ranging from as low as $20 to a high of $310, nationally, most fuse, circuit breakers or relay replacements stand at $165.
If you need any sort of A/C repair in Broward County or Palm Beach County, contact a professional at Cousin's Air today.