Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionerunit you have, you'll feel more confident in your provider search. Mount Prospect HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- 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 a common choice for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Mount Prospect apartments, townhomes, and condos. 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 AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering consistent, precise 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Mount Prospect AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research before signing a contract with a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the top-rated company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
There's no state HVAC license in the Land of Lincoln. Instead, cities and counties are free to set their own requirements and regulations. Check with your local building department for more information.
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 businesses that handle 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best deal. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Mount Prospect
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Mount Prospect?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
Common Repair | Average Cost |
---|---|
Clogged air filter | $64–$172 |
Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
Thermostat | $86–$214 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,286–$3,859 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,629 |
What are some signs that I should call an HVAC repair company?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Faultycompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
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