When temperatures rise in Murfreesboro, a working air conditioner isn’t just a comfort — it’s a necessity. However, when your AC starts acting up, it can quickly turn your home into an uncomfortable space, leaving you to wonder what the repair bill might look like.
Understanding the most common AC issues and their typical repair costs can help you plan and avoid unexpected expenses.
Below is what every homeowner should know about staying cool and in control when AC problems strike.
Weak or No Airflow
If your AC isn’t blowing air or the airflow feels unusually weak, your home can quickly become uncomfortably hot. This issue is often caused by clogged air filters, blocked vents, or deteriorating internal components.
- DIY fix: Replacing the air filter costs around $10–$20 and should be done every two months.
- Professional repair: Cleaning vents or replacing a blower motor can cost $100–$400, depending on the severity of the issue.
Regular maintenance is crucial for maintaining airflow and preventing more significant performance issues.
AC Not Cooling Properly
When your air conditioner is running but your home feels more like a greenhouse, cooling performance is likely compromised. Common causes include low refrigerant levels, dirty coils, or worn-out components.
- Refrigerant recharge + leak detection: $150–$500
- Component cleaning: $80–$200
Given Murfreesboro’s high humidity, cooling issues often result in longer system runtimes and higher utility bills. Addressing the problem early can help restore comfort and prevent further damage.
Unusual Noises
Banging, rattling, or squealing sounds from your AC unit typically indicate a loose, worn, or obstructed component.
- Minor repairs (e.g., tightening or cleaning): $100–$250
- Replacing motors or belts: $200–$600
Unusual noises should never be ignored. They can worsen quickly and increase repair costs if left unchecked.
Water Leaks
Water around your indoor unit typically indicates a clogged drain line or a faulty condensate pump.
- Drain line clearing: $75–$200
- Pump replacement: $150–$400
In high-humidity areas like Murfreesboro, leaks can lead to mold or water damage, so prompt repairs are essential.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the AC unit—it’s the thermostat. If your system runs constantly or doesn’t cool effectively, the thermostat may need adjustment or replacement.
- Battery replacement: Just a few dollars
- Recalibration or replacement: $100–$300 for basic models; up to $500 for smart thermostats with installation
Check the thermostat first before assuming your entire system needs repair.
Frozen Components
Your AC fails to cool while ice forms on the unit, indicating frozen components that typically result from poor airflow, low refrigerant levels, or accumulated dirt. A professional will both defrost the system and address its origin of failure at a cost between $150 and $450. The resolution of frozen parts requires professional expertise, and regular filter maintenance prevents such occurrences.
Electrical Problems
If your system won’t start or trips the breaker, there may be wiring or control board issues at play.
- Minor electrical fixes: $100–$350
- Complex repairs (e.g., control boards): $250–$700
Due to safety risks, electrical repairs should always be handled by a licensed professional.
When to Get Professional Help
While basic maintenance tasks, such as changing filters, can be handled on your own, refrigerant issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures require expert attention. If your AC is leaking, making odd noises, or not cooling properly, don’t wait for the problem to escalate.
For more details on what to expect, read this expert guide to common AC repair costs in Murfreesboro to understand your options better and take the right next step.
Knowing what to look for and what it might cost can help you respond quickly and protect both your comfort and your budget during peak cooling season.