Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Phenix City HVAC contractors have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Phenix City condos, apartments, and townhomes. These budget-friendly, convenient units are designed for cooling single rooms and small spaces, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable AC systems 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
How to Choose Your Phenix City AC Repair Service
With Phenix City's scorching heat, AC problems are urgent to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't race to sign a contract until you know 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.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if accidents happen during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that respond to complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair companies to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different providers for the best price. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Phenix City
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Phenix City?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$171 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $86–$214 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,286–$3,857 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,628 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Phenix City respond to emergency repair requests?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
