Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner types, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll describe each of the common AC models.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner systems have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide peaceful operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Waterford 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 deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Waterford AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before signing a contract with a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the top-rated 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 verify a company has sufficient liability insurance 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
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 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 the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Waterford
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Waterford?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$171 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $86–$214 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,286–$3,857 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,629 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
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