Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different types of HVAC models on the Catonsville 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 implies, portable ACs 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 apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, flexible installation options, and higher energy efficiency.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Catonsville townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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-mounted AC users deploy 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 different rooms in your home.
How to Choose Your Catonsville AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before committing to 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
Maryland HVAC contractors need licensure from the Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) Contractors. A master license requires three years of journeyman experience, 1,875 hours of HVAC work performed in the last year, and a comprehensive trade 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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes contractors that handle 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 company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting three or more estimates to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about installer guarantees, permitting fees, manufacturer warranties and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Catonsville
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Catonsville?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
Common Repair | Average Cost |
---|---|
Clogged air filter | $66–$176 |
Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
Thermostat | $88–$220 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,322–$3,967 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,675 |
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
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Malfunctioningcompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
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?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.