Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more empowered in your contractor search. Hoover HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can adapt their skills to your needs.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, offering consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools air from outside, purifies it, and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Hoover condos, apartments, and townhomes. These compact, affordable units are designed for cooling small spaces and single rooms, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window-mounted AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable ACs don't require permanent installation or ductwork. Instead, they remove hot air through an exhaust hose connected to a window or nearby vent. They're preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Hoover AC Repair Service
With Hoover's extreme heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't race to sign a contract until you're convinced a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Alabama has a dedicated Board of Heating, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Contractors that issues licenses and enforces regulations. To get a heating/air conditioning or refrigeration contractor license, a businessowner must pass an exam, pay an annual fee, register their company, and get at least a $15,000 performance bond. The state has a license reciprocity agreement with Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, and West Virginia, but each businessowner must take four hours of continuing education in Alabama per year to stay in active standing.
Many states and cities also require companies to carry liability insurance. Even if your community doesn't require it, we still recommend choosing an insured company. This will protect you if an accident happens or something gets damaged.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We advise getting at least three different estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, installer guarantees, permitting fees and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Hoover
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Hoover?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$163 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $81–$203 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,219–$3,658 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,544 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Hoover AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
