Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different kinds of air conditioners on the Atlanta market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will simplify your company hunt.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Atlanta townhomes, condos, and apartments. These compact, affordable 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 install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Atlanta AC Repair Service
With Atlanta's blazing heat, AC problems are urgent to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you're sure a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Georgia HVAC licenses come from the State Board of Conditioned Air Contractors. To apply, a company owner must provide references, environmental certifications, and proof of citizenship. If they've never held an HVAC license before, they must also pass a trade exam.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if mishaps arise during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting at least three different estimates to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties, permitting fees 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 Atlanta
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Atlanta?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $63–$167 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $83–$209 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,252–$3,755 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,586 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
