Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioning units on the Medford market. While HVAC contractors can work with most types, knowing which one you have will simplify your company research.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, 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 popular for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Medford condos, apartments, and townhomes. 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 air conditioner users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Medford 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 reliable 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
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes contractors that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common 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
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different providers for the best price. A good estimate should include additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, and the emergency repair process.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Medford
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Medford?
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 |
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Medford AC repair companies?
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.
