Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more empowered in your company search. Asheville HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, offering precise, consistent 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 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 preferred for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Asheville condos, townhomes, and apartments. 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-mounted AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Asheville AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there 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
The North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors licenses, regulates, and hears complaints about AC repair companies. To apply, business owners must pass a comprehensive exam, financial audit, and background check. Crew members under the owner don't need a license.
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 businesses that resolve complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common 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
We advise getting at least three different estimates to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, emergency repair availability and permitting fees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Asheville
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Asheville?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $62–$165 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $82–$206 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,237–$3,711 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,567 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioning capacitor
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
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.
