Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different kinds of air conditioners on the Lowell market. While HVAC technicians can work with most types, knowing which one you have will simplify your company research.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer peaceful operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering precise, consistent 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 popular for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Lowell apartments, townhomes, and condos. These compact, affordable 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.
How to Choose Your Lowell AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research before hiring a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the best 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.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if accidents happen during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Read 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best value. A good estimate should factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, the emergency repair process, and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Lowell
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Lowell?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $68–$181 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $91–$227 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,360–$4,080 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,723 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioning capacitor
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How often should Lowell homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
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