Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioners on the Costa Mesa market. While HVAC contractors can work with most types, knowing which one you have will streamline your company search.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer peaceful operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering precise, consistent temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Costa Mesa condos, apartments, and townhomes. 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-mounted AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Costa Mesa AC Repair Service
With Costa Mesa's intense heat, AC problems are urgent 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
California HVAC contractors need a C-20 (Warm-Air Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning) license from the Department of Consumer Affairs. The application process involves comprehensive exams on business law and practical skills.
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
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that handle 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 companies for the best value. A good estimate should factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, the emergency repair process, and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Costa Mesa
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Costa Mesa?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $67–$178 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $89–$223 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,336–$4,007 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,692 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioning capacitor
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Costa Mesa AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
