Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll outline each of the common AC types.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable air conditioners 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.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Chelsea condos, townhomes, and apartments. These compact, affordable 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.
- 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.
How to Choose Your Chelsea AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the top-rated company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
The Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Inspections issues Refrigeration Technician licenses to crew members and Refrigeration Contractor licenses to business owners. Each crew member must meet specific hour requirements for training and practical experience. They must also carry a high school diploma/GED and Universal CFC certification to apply.
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 accredits businesses that handle complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting at least three different estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, permitting fees, installer guarantees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Chelsea
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Chelsea?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $67–$179 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $90–$224 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,345–$4,034 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,703 |
How often should Chelsea homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Chelsea respond to emergency repair requests?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
