Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll describe each of the common AC systems.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer quiet operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units 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.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for East Lansing 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-mounted AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to different rooms in your home.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable air conditioner units 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.
How to Choose Your East Lansing AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research 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
Michigan HVAC companies need a Mechanical License to work in the state. A business owner must have three years of experience and pass an exam for each HVAC specialty they'd like to offer.
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 accidents happen during work.
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 effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider 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 list 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 East Lansing
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in East Lansing?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $63–$167 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $83–$208 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,251–$3,753 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,584 |
How often should East Lansing homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
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?
How quickly can an HVAC company in East Lansing respond to emergency repair requests?
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