Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionerunit you have, you'll feel more confident in your company search. Charleston HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can tailor their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 a common choice for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Charleston 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 set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners have an exterior 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 residential AC systems, offering precise, consistent temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools air from outside, purifies it, and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
How to Choose Your Charleston AC Repair Service
With the sweltering Charleston 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
In West Virginia, HVAC technicians and apprentices must hold individual licensure and work for a Division of Labor-licensed contractor. Master technicians' licenses require at least 2,000 hours of work experience.
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 recognizes contractors that resolve complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair companies to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting three or more 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 Charleston
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Charleston?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$163 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $81–$203 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,219–$3,657 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,544 |
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
- Brokencompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Charleston AC repair companies?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Charleston respond to emergency repair requests?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
