Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll explain each of the common AC units.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable air conditioner systems 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.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Cheltenham 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide silent operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an exterior unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, flexible installation options, and higher energy efficiency.
How to Choose Your Cheltenham 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 best company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires home improvement contractors to register with the Attorney General. By law, these companies must display their registration numbers on all marketing materials, including their websites. They must also follow licensing requirements in the counties and cities they serve.
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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that resolve 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
We advise getting contacting at least three different companies to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Cheltenham
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Cheltenham?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$177 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $89–$221 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,328–$3,983 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,682 |
What are some signs that I should call an HVAC repair company?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Refrigerant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Malfunctioningcompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
