Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. San Francisco HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, offering precise, consistent 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for San Francisco townhomes, condos, and apartments. These budget-friendly, convenient 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 set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
How to Choose Your San Francisco AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the most suitable company for your home.
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
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes contractors that respond to complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair companies to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different providers for the best value. A good estimate should consider additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in San Francisco
What's the cost of an AC repair job in San Francisco?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $67–$179 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $89–$224 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,342–$4,026 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,700 |
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
How quickly can an HVAC company in San Francisco 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.
