Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your provider search. Fitchburg HVAC contractors 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 Fitchburg apartments, townhomes, and condos. 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-mounted AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- 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 preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide quiet operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 Fitchburg AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there 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
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
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common 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 advise getting contacting at least three different companies 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 Fitchburg
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Fitchburg?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$170 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $85–$212 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,271–$3,814 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,610 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
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.
