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 systems.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable air conditioners 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Streamwood condos, apartments, and townhomes. 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.
How to Choose Your Streamwood AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before hiring 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.
You should also verify a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if something gets damaged during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses that respond to 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 advise getting at least three different quotes to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties, permitting fees and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Streamwood
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Streamwood?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$176 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $88–$220 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,317–$3,951 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,668 |
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
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.
