Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more empowered in your contractor search. Islip HVAC contractors have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering consistent, precise 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable ACs 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Islip townhomes, condos, and apartments. These budget-friendly, convenient units are designed for cooling single rooms and small spaces, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window-mounted AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Islip AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before hiring a repair company, it's important to do careful research to ensure it's the best for your home. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
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 accidents happen during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Read 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 value. A good estimate should consider additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, installer guarantees, and manufacturer warranties.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Islip
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Islip?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$170 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $85–$213 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,279–$3,836 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,620 |
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?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
