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 explain each of the common AC models.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering precise, consistent temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Urbana apartments, condos, 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 air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer quiet operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Urbana AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research before hiring a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the right 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 contractors that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different providers for the best price. A good estimate should consider additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Urbana
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Urbana?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $62–$166 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $83–$208 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,246–$3,738 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,578 |
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?
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.
