Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner models, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll outline each of the common AC types.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, portable AC 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 preferred for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer quiet operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Scranton townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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 air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Scranton AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before signing up with a repair company, it's important to do careful research to ensure it's the best for your home. 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
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 three or more estimates to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, permitting fees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Scranton
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Scranton?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $60–$161 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $80–$201 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,207–$3,621 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,529 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
