Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more confident in your provider search. Oyster Bay HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Oyster Bay townhomes, condos, 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, 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 Oyster Bay AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the top-rated 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.
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
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that resolve complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair businesses 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 three or more estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, emergency repair availability, permitting fees and installer guarantees.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Oyster Bay
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Oyster Bay?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $65–$172 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $86–$216 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,293–$3,880 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,638 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
