Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Somerville HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 preferred for condos, apartments, 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 higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Somerville 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Somerville AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the most suitable 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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes businesses that respond to 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best deal. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Somerville
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Somerville?
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 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
- Faultycapacitor
- Faultycompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Somerville AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.