Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your company search. Lewiston HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can adapt their skills to your needs.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Lewiston townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable AC systems 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Lewiston AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before engaging with a repair company, it's important to do careful research to ensure it's the best for your home. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
In Maine, a contractor doesn't need a state license to install or repair a conventional HVAC system. The only exception is if a system burns waste oil, propane, solid fuel, or natural gas.
Local governments can and often do license contractors in their jurisdictions. To play it safe, we recommend contacting yours to learn more about its unique requirements.
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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses that resolve complaints effectively 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 provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting at least three different quotes to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, permitting fees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Lewiston
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Lewiston?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $60–$159 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $79–$198 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,191–$3,572 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,508 |
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
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Faultycapacitor
- Malfunctioningcompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Lewiston AC repair companies?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
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