Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioners on the Minnetonka market. While HVAC technicians can work with most types, knowing which one you have will simplify your company research.
- 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 ACs 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Minnetonka townhomes, condos, and apartments. These compact, affordable units are designed for cooling small spaces and single rooms, 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
How to Choose Your Minnetonka AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before recruiting 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
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.
You should also verify 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
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits 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
We recommend getting three or more estimates to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, permitting fees, emergency repair availability and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Minnetonka
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Minnetonka?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $68–$180 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $90–$225 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,351–$4,053 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,711 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Minnetonka AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
