Homeowners Should Know How Home Warranties Affect AC Repair Costs

The good news is that homeowners can minimize AC Repair Encino costs by scheduling routine maintenance in the spring and fall. Having HVAC maintenance done also reduces the chances of a breakdown during the summer.

A clogged air filter or a blocked return air duct can cause ice to form on an air conditioner’s evaporator coil. This can lead to poor air flow, which a technician can help correct.

The age and quality of an air conditioning unit can have a major impact on the amount it will cost to repair or replace it. While consistent maintenance can extend the life of an HVAC system, all systems eventually reach a point where they need to be replaced.

An AC that has been properly maintained can be expected to last about 15 to 20 years. During this time, a professional technician can perform routine cleanings that can help prolong the life of an air conditioner. When an AC isn’t being serviced regularly, it can accumulate dust and debris that causes the fan to overwork. This can increase the chances of a motor burning out or the compressor becoming damaged.

As an air conditioner gets older, it can also become less energy efficient. This is a common reason why homeowners notice higher energy bills than usual. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that homeowners can reduce their energy usage and save money on utility bills.

Some AC repairs can be done by a homeowner without the need for an expert. For example, changing air filters regularly, reprogramming a smart thermostat, or vacuuming the ductwork can reduce cooling costs and prevent larger problems down the road.

One of the most common AC repair issues involves a clogged air filter. This problem can be a result of not changing or cleaning the filter, or it can be caused by a blockage within the ductwork. Homeowners should make sure all return and supply vents are free of obstructions, such as furniture, toys, or drapes.

Another common AC repair issue involves a faulty thermostat or a deteriorating AC capacitor. A faulty thermostat can cause the blower to run continuously or shorten the system’s cycle. A faulty blower, on the other hand, can’t push cool air into the ductwork and will need to be repaired or replaced.

Homeowners who have a home warranty should check to see if their air conditioning unit is covered under the policy. If the unit is covered by a home warranty, the company that provides it will cover all or a portion of the repair or replacement costs.

Units in Tight or Hard-to-Reach Spaces

If your AC unit is in an attic or another difficult-to-access space, it will likely take more time to repair and could cost more. This is because technicians will need to go up or down ladders, crawl spaces, or through walls to access the unit. It also means that they may need to use specialized tools or equipment. Additionally, these types of units tend to be less energy-efficient because air doesn’t circulate as well.

A clogged air filter or dirty condensate drain line can be the source of AC unit leaks, which can cause mold and other damage to your home. Leaks can also be caused by a broken fan or low refrigerant levels.

Other common AC repair issues include a thermostatic expansion valve, a relay, or a fuse. A thermostatic expansion valve is responsible for regulating how much coolant enters an AC unit’s evaporator, and it typically costs between $300 and $500 to replace. A relay is an electrical component that controls the flow of current to an AC unit’s compressor, and it can be repaired for between $100 and $300. A fuse is similar to a car fuse, and it can blow due to overuse or power surges.

Aside from these common AC repair issues, there are other factors that can influence the overall price of an AC repair job. These include the location of the unit, its age, and the season. Air conditioning systems need to be maintained regularly, especially during the summer. Otherwise, they are more likely to break down, leading to high repair bills.

While it is true that a higher-priced brand of AC unit will likely be more expensive to repair, homeowners should consider other features offered by the manufacturer aside from price points, specifically warranties. A longer warranty can help offset the initial purchase price and save homeowners money over time.

Units with a Home Warranty

A home warranty is an insurance plan that pays for repair costs on certain systems and appliances when they break down due to normal wear and tear. Many plans cover systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, while others offer coverage on appliances such as refrigerators and built-in microwaves.

When choosing a home warranty plan, it is important to find out if the plan covers your system and/or appliances and which specific parts they cover. It’s also essential to check if there are any exclusions or maximum payout limits for each system and/or appliance in the contract.

Home warranties cost between $300 and $600 per year and are a good option for new homeowners who don’t have a lot of money saved for major repairs. They can also level the playing field for homeowners with older or lower-end units that may otherwise need a replacement.

Most plans will require a service fee or trade call to be paid to the third-party service provider sent out to your home to diagnose and fix the broken appliance or system. This amount acts as a deductible and is generally required each time you file a claim with your home warranty company.

During your AC repair, you can expect the technician to perform some routine maintenance, which should include changing the air filter and cleaning the coils. They can also check the unit for any signs of dirt or debris that could be causing problems with your unit’s fans and compressor. In addition, the technician can test the thermostat to make sure it’s reading correctly. If your thermostat isn’t reading correctly, it’s likely that the sensor has failed and will need to be replaced.

During times of high demand, it’s common for technicians to receive more repair requests than they have available technicians. In these situations, the service providers may apply emergency fees to the repairs to ensure that they get the highest-priority jobs done first. This is especially common for middle-of-the-night or weekend calls during the summer, when AC issues are more likely to arise.

Units with a Manufacturer’s Warranty

When homeowners purchase AC units, they should know how their warranties affect repair costs. A good HVAC company will clearly spell out any warranty terms and conditions that need to be adhered to in order for the warranty to remain valid. If homeowners ignore any of these terms and conditions, they run the risk of voiding their warranty and incurring unexpected repair expenses.

Many manufacturers provide a warranty that covers parts for up to 15 years and sometimes even longer. However, these warranties are only effective if the homeowner registers their equipment within the allotted time frame. Some companies also provide a warranty for installation that covers any defects or problems with the unit’s installation. When looking for an installer, homeowners should ask if their installation warranty is transferable and what types of problems the warranty covers.

In addition to manufacturer’s warranties, homeowners may be able to take advantage of a home warranty from one of the top companies. These types of warranties can help cover some of the repair costs for air conditioning units, and they are often transferable if the homeowners sell their home during the coverage period.

There are numerous factors that can lead to an AC unit needing repair. The type of repair needed can significantly influence the total repair cost. For example, if an air conditioner is blowing warm air, it is likely that there is an issue with the evaporator coils. In this case, the coils will need to be thawed, and homeowners should turn off the system in order to do so.

Other common issues that require AC repair include a faulty thermostat, a blower that can’t push cool air into ductwork, or an AC capacitor that is beginning to fail. These issues can be difficult for homeowners to diagnose on their own and can quickly escalate in price without professional help. If a homeowner isn’t sure what the problem is, it’s best to contact an AC repair technician and have them check out the unit.