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 models.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable AC 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 a common choice for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide peaceful operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Lancaster 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 set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Lancaster AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before recruiting a repair company, it's important to take the time to research if they're ideal for your dwelling. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
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 recognizes contractors that handle complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal 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 contacting at least three different companies to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, manufacturer warranties, permitting fees and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Lancaster
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Lancaster?
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 | $1,277–$3,832 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,618 |
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
- Brokencapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
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.
