Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of HVAC models on the Old Bridge market. While HVAC contractors can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company search.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Old Bridge condos, townhomes, 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 air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- 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 a common choice for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Old Bridge AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before signing a contract with a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the right company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
AC repair companies in the Garden State need licensure from the New Jersey State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) Contractors. Master licenses have experience requirements, which a business owner can fulfill through apprenticeships, a university degree, or a trade school diploma.
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 something gets damaged during work.
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 resolve complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal 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 at least three different quotes to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, installer guarantees, permitting fees and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Old Bridge
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Old Bridge?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$176 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $88–$220 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,317–$3,951 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,668 |
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
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Faultycapacitor
- Faultycompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Old Bridge AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
