Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner types, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll outline each of the common AC units.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Prattville condos, townhomes, and apartments. These compact, affordable 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 deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, 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.
How to Choose Your Prattville AC Repair Service
With the oppressive Prattville heat, AC issues are top priority to fix. However, to get the best possible outcome, it's critical to thoroughly research different HVAC companies first. We recommend adhering to these steps as you prepare.
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 recognizes contractors that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers 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 companies for the best price. A good estimate should factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, installer guarantees, and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Prattville
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Prattville?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $57–$153 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $76–$191 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,146–$3,439 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,452 |
How often should Prattville homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Prattville AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
