Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your company search. St. Clair HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioner systems 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 apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for St. Clair 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-mounted air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor 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 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 different rooms in your home.
- Split ACs: Split AC 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 St. Clair AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before engaging with a repair company, it's important to take the time to research if they're ideal for your dwelling. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
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 businesses that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair companies 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 deal. A good estimate should consider additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, the emergency repair process, and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in St. Clair
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in St. Clair?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
Common Repair | Average Cost |
---|---|
Clogged air filter | $63–$169 |
Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
Thermostat | $84–$211 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,267–$3,800 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,604 |
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
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Faultycapacitor
- Malfunctioningcompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How often should St. Clair homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
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?
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