Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Alexandria HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can adapt their skills to your needs.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Alexandria apartments, condos, 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 AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide peaceful operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, 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 preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- 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.
How to Choose Your Alexandria AC Repair Service
With Alexandria's blazing heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your safety and comfort. However, don't race to sign a contract until you're sure a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
According to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, a company must hold a mechanical contracting license to do refrigeration, air conditioning, ductwork, heating, and ventilation work. The application process involves a financial audit, criminal background check, business filing review, and closed-book exam.
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
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair businesses 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 providers for the best price. 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 Alexandria
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Alexandria?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$164 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $82–$205 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,229–$3,688 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,557 |
How often should Alexandria homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
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.
