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 types.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Dubuque 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 AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable AC 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 preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC systems have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
How to Choose Your Dubuque 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 most suitable company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Iowa's Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board licenses refrigeration, sheet metal, HVAC, and hydronic contractors. Apprentices, journeymen, and master technicians need individual licenses, but "helpers" under a journeyman or master do not.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if mishaps arise during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses 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 business 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 factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Dubuque
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Dubuque?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $62–$165 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $83–$206 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,238–$3,715 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,569 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Refrigerant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Brokencapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
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