Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your provider search. Malden HVAC professionals 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 Malden townhomes, condos, 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 air conditioner users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, improved 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 various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
How to Choose Your Malden AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before hiring 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
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 insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if something gets damaged 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 businesses that respond to 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 company 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 manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, permitting fees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Malden
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Malden?
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
- Brokencapacitor
- Malfunctioningcompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How often should Malden homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
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