Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different kinds of air conditioners on the Northbrook market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company hunt.
- 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 ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Northbrook apartments, townhomes, and condos. 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Northbrook AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before signing a contract with 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
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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that handle 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 provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting three or more estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Northbrook
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Northbrook?
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 |
How often should Northbrook 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?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Northbrook AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
