Air conditioners are an essential part of many modern homes. Not only do they make you more comfortable, but they also improve the air quality of your home. If you own an air conditioner, regular maintenance is required to keep it in tip-top condition. While modern AC units are fairly low-maintenance compared to other domestic appliances, regular inspection can help to identify problems, lower operating costs, and improve system longevity.

From one-time inspections to ongoing servicing and complex repairs, let’s take a look at common air conditioning maintenance jobs and charges.

Repair costs can vary widely

Before we start, it’s important to note that repair costs differ widely depending on the nature of the problem. AC units come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s also a key difference between central AC and ductless AC units. While both technologies consist of separate condenser and evaporator units, ducts, vents, and mini-split systems have different repair needs. In a typical situation, you can expect to pay a minimum of $150 to $200 for a basic repair job, with more complex projects ranging from $500 to $1,000.

Common air conditioner problems

Modern air conditioners are very reliable, but problems can and do occur. If you experience any problems with your AC unit, it’s important to contact a professional repair team as soon as possible. If you want to get proactive and avoid repair costs altogether, regular air conditioning maintenance programs are advised to identify issues early and prevent additional problems.

The following air conditioner problems are common:

• Blocked filters and coils – Air conditioner filters and coils need to be replaced on a regular basis. Clogged filters can reduce efficiency, and dirty coils reduce airflow and air quality. Regular inspections can help to identify issues and replace components.
• Damaged or dislodged thermostat – Air conditioners are designed with a thermostat behind the control panel. This simple device can become easily damaged or dislodged. If your unit is not blowing cold air, the sensor may need fixing or replacing.
• Ice buildup – If your air conditioning fan belt has become damaged, it may be due to ice buildup. When ice collects inside an AC unit, it can slow cooling performance, decrease operating efficiency, and increase cooling costs.
• Compressor wear-out – Compressor and fan controls can wear out over time, often due to extended use or broken capacitors. A functioning compressor is essential to every AC unit. Unlike many other AC problems, this issue can be difficult to repair, with replacement often required.

Need to repair your air conditioner?

If you’re looking to service or repair your air conditioner in Southern Ontario, Aire One is here to help. As one of the largest HVAC companies in the region, we support the local community with 9 locations, more than 150 trucks, and over 120,000 happy customers. If you want to learn more about our AC repair and maintenance program, please contact Aire One Barrie at 705-315-0390 or request an estimate online.