Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioners on the St. Paul market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company search.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits 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.
- 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.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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 St. Paul 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-mounted AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your St. Paul AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before engaging with a repair company, it's important to take the time to research if they're ideal for your dwelling. 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 confirm a company has sufficient liability insurance 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 accredits businesses that resolve complaints professionally 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 value. 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 St. Paul
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in St. Paul?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $69–$184 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $92–$229 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,377–$4,131 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,744 |
How often should St. Paul homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching St. Paul AC repair companies?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
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