Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll explain each of the common AC units.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Arvada condos, townhomes, and apartments. 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-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 indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Arvada AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before recruiting a repair company, it's important to carefully investigate how well it fits your home's needs. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Colorado licenses plumbers and electricians at the state level, but not HVAC contractors. Counties and cities are free to issue their own licenses, and we encourage you to contact your local government for more information.
You should also confirm a company has sufficient liability insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if accidents happen during work.
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 effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal 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
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best value. 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 Arvada
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Arvada?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$175 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $88–$219 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,315–$3,944 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,665 |
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
How often should Arvada homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
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