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 units.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for University City apartments, condos, 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 air conditioner users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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 preferred for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your University City AC Repair Service
With the sweltering University City heat, AC issues are urgent to fix. However, to get the best possible outcome, it's critical to investigate different HVAC companies first. We recommend adhering to these steps as you prepare.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
While Missouri licenses some contractors at the state level, it does not for HVAC companies. Local governments can set their own requirements, and we recommend contacting your town hall or county building department for more information.
You should also confirm 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
Find 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 businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We advise getting at least three different quotes to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in University City
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in University City?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $65–$173 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $86–$216 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,295–$3,886 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,641 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How quickly can an HVAC company in University City respond to emergency repair requests?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
