When your air conditioning system breaks down in the height of summer, many homeowners don’t make the cost their first thought. When the temperatures rise and nothing helps you cool down, the first question homeowners usually ask is: How long will the repair take?
Although there is no definitive answer for how long any given repair will take, we’ve developed time estimates based on the hundreds of air conditioning units we’ve worked on across New England. From traditional air conditioning units to mini split AC repair and ductless AC repair, we’ve seen it all — which is why we’re ready to help your home turn into an air-conditioned paradise as fast as possible. Here are our estimates on how long AC repairs can take.
How Long Should I Plan for AC Repair?
Making a service call to Heritage Home Service means you’re getting a team that can not only give you a time when your technician will arrive but also how long it may take to get your repair done. All of our technicians come with fully stocked trucks to take care of the problem in one visit to your New England Home. Depending on the problem you may be facing, here’s how much time you should plan for AC repairs.
AC Repairs That Usually Take Less Than Two Hours
Not all AC repairs require lengthy service visits. Many common issues can be resolved in under two hours by a skilled technician. These rapid repairs typically don’t require special parts and can often be completed during the initial service call, getting your AC back up and running with minimal downtime. Some of the AC repairs that can take less than two hours include:
- Thermostat replacement or recalibration
- Clogged condensate drain line cleaning
- Minor electrical issues like fuse replacement
- Filter replacement and basic system cleaning
- Refrigerant pressure checks and minor top-offs
AC Repairs That Usually Take Less Than Four Hours
When your AC needs more than a quick fix but isn’t facing major system failure, repairs typically take between two and four hours. These medium-length repairs often involve replacing worn components or addressing refrigerant leaks. While these issues are more complex, our technicians have the expertise and usually the parts and tools in their trucks to make a fix in a single visit. Some of the repairs that could take up to four hours include:
- Capacitor or contactor replacement
- Fan motor repair or replacement
- Refrigerant leak detection and repair
- Circuit board replacement
- Ductwork inspection and sealing
AC Repairs That Could Last All Day
The most complex repairs can take anywhere from four to eight hours. If you require a new AC unit or are installing a mini split AC or ductless AC system, it might require multiple visits. Compressor replacement is one of the most intensive repairs, often taking a full day or more to complete. Similarly, replacing an evaporator or condenser coil is a major undertaking that requires significant time and expertise. If you are facing one of these problems, you should plan to take several hours for the repairs:
- Compressor replacement
- Evaporator or condenser coil replacement
- Complete system refrigerant replacement
- Major ductwork repairs or replacement
- Multiple component failures
What Are the Signs I Need AC Repair?
If your home starts warming up without warning, it’s definitely a sign that your air conditioning unit has broken. But before it breaks down entirely, there are several indicators that you need AC repair sooner rather than later.
- Strange noises like grinding, squealing, or banging often indicate mechanical problems that need immediate attention.
- Weak airflow or warm air coming from your vents suggests potential compressor issues or refrigerant leaks.
- Unusual odors, particularly musty smells, might indicate mold growth in your system while burning smells could signal electrical problems.
- Rising energy bills without increased usage require attention.
- Frequent cycling on and off signals an inefficiency and potential repair need.
Call the Experts at Heritage Home Service For Your AC Repair Needs
When you need AC repair, time is always of the essence. Asking the friendly technicians at Heritage Home Service how long AC repair may take will always result in a truthful and honest response based on our experience. We’ll never extend our service time just to pad our hours or charge you more for what should be a quick replacement. Instead, we’ll give you the information you need to properly plan your day, and we’ll keep you informed of our work as we get it done. You’ll never be left in the dark with Heritage Home Service — you’ll always be informed of changes and we’ll take the time to answer your questions.
Trust the experienced team at Heritage Home Service to help get your AC repairs done on time and on budget, no matter what the job takes. Contact us today to schedule your next service call or regular maintenance today.