Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionersystem you have, you'll feel more empowered in your company search. Salem HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can adapt their skills to your needs.
- 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.
- 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 higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Salem apartments, townhomes, and condos. These budget-friendly, convenient 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 air conditioner users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Salem 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 right 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 something gets damaged during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that respond to complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair companies 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 providers for the best value. A good estimate should include additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Salem
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Salem?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$175 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $87–$219 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,311–$3,934 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,661 |
What are some signs that I should call an HVAC repair company?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Brokencapacitor
- Brokencompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
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