Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioning units on the Winston-Salem market. While HVAC contractors can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company research.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Winston-Salem 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 install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems 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-split ACs have an outdoor 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 different rooms in your home.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable air conditioner units 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Winston-Salem AC Repair Service
With the sweltering Winston-Salem heat, AC issues are top priority to fix. However, to get the best possible outcome, it's critical to investigate different HVAC companies first. We recommend adhering to these steps as you prepare.
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.
You should also verify a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if something gets damaged 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 resolve complaints effectively 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 provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting at least three different quotes to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, emergency repair availability, installer guarantees and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Winston-Salem
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Winston-Salem?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$162 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $81–$203 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,218–$3,654 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,543 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Defectivecapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Winston-Salem respond to emergency repair requests?
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