Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different types of air conditioning units on the Merrillville market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company research.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable air conditioner units 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners 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 conditioners have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Merrillville townhomes, apartments, and condos. These compact, affordable 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 install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Merrillville 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 carefully investigate how well it fits your home's needs. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Indiana doesn't issue HVAC contractor licenses at the state level. However, many counties and cities still require licenses within their limits. Each local government can choose what exams a company owner must pass and what filings they need to submit.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability insurance 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
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that handle complaints effectively 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
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different providers for the best price. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Merrillville
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Merrillville?
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–$207 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,244–$3,731 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,575 |
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
- Brokencapacitor
- Brokencompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
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.