Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your company search. Tampa HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can tailor their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable ACs 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.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Tampa townhomes, condos, and apartments. These budget-friendly, convenient units are designed for cooling small spaces and single rooms, 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.
- Split ACs: Split AC units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer peaceful operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
How to Choose Your Tampa AC Repair Service
With the sweltering Tampa heat, AC issues are urgent 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
Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation certifies air conditioning contractors. New in-state applicants must verify their work experience, pass exams, purchase insurance, get fingerprinted, and prove financial stability and responsibility to earn a license. There is also a reciprocity path for contractors in other states to earn licensure in the Sunshine State.
Note that a Florida HVAC license doesn't allow contractors to work with gas lines or electrical systems. Both of these jobs require subcontracting.
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 professionally 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
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best value. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, installer guarantees, and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Tampa
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Tampa?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$164 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $82–$205 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,230–$3,690 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,558 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
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?
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.