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 types.
- 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioners 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 conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Colonie condos, apartments, and townhomes. 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 air conditioner users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units 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 Colonie AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research before hiring 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
The New York state government doesn't require HVAC companies to get a state license. However, it's common for local governments to require licenses. You should ask your city offices about what's required where you live.
You should also verify a company has sufficient liability insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if mishaps arise 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 handle complaints professionally 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting contacting at least three different companies to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about installer guarantees, emergency repair availability, permitting fees and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Colonie
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Colonie?
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 | $1,296–$3,889 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,642 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Colonie respond to emergency repair requests?
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