Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Mankato HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable AC 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems 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-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Mankato 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 AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Mankato 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
In Minnesota, HVAC companies are legally "mechanical contractors." The Department of Labor and Industry nonetheless requires them to register and carry at least a $25,000 bond. Further, while they don't need state licenses, they must comply with local licensing requirements in their service area. We encourage you to contact your city and county governments for more information.
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 recognizes businesses 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 company 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 include 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 Mankato
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Mankato?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $60–$161 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $80–$201 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,205–$3,616 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,527 |
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
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized 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?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
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