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.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, 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 AC units 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 popular for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for North Miami Beach 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 air conditioner users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
How to Choose Your North Miami Beach AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the best company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation certifies air conditioning contractors. New in-state applicants must verify their work experience, pass exams, purchase insurance, get fingerprinted, and prove financial stability and responsibility to earn a license. There is also a reciprocity path for contractors in other states to earn licensure in the Sunshine State.
Note that a Florida HVAC license doesn't allow contractors to work with gas lines or electrical systems. Both of these jobs require subcontracting.
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 businesses that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common 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 installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in North Miami Beach
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in North Miami Beach?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $59–$158 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $79–$197 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,182–$3,545 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,497 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
