Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner models, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll describe each of the common AC units.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Butte townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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 air conditioner users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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.
How to Choose Your Butte AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before hiring a repair company, it's important to carefully investigate how well it fits your home's needs. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Montana doesn't have state-level HVAC licenses. However, AC repair companies must still register as Construction Contractors with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. Registration certifies that a company follows state employment laws. If a company is prudent about keeping their status up to date, it's a good sign that the team cares about compliance and quality.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability 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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that respond to complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers 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 price. A good estimate should consider 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 Butte
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Butte?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
Common Repair | Average Cost |
---|---|
Clogged air filter | $61–$163 |
Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
Thermostat | $82–$204 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,226–$3,678 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,553 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Defectivecapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Butte respond to emergency repair requests?
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