Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioner units on the Shrewsbury market. While HVAC contractors can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company search.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioner 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 a common choice for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Shrewsbury townhomes, condos, and apartments. 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 deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Shrewsbury AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution 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.
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 accredits contractors that respond to complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common 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 deal. A good estimate should factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, the emergency repair process, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Shrewsbury
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Shrewsbury?
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 |
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
- Refrigerant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Faultycompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Shrewsbury respond to emergency repair requests?
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