Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll outline each of the common AC systems.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Passaic townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, flexible installation options, and higher energy efficiency.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Passaic AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before hiring a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the most suitable 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.
Many states and cities also require companies to carry liability insurance. Even if your community doesn't require it, we still recommend choosing an insured company. This will protect you if an accident happens or something gets damaged.
Read Customer Reviews
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes 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 business 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 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 Passaic
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Passaic?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $63–$168 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $84–$210 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,257–$3,771 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,592 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
