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 outline each of the common AC units.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs 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 Bakersfield townhomes, apartments, and condos. These compact, affordable 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.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioner 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Bakersfield AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do your research before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the right company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
California HVAC contractors need a C-20 (Warm-Air Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning) license from the Department of Consumer Affairs. The application process involves comprehensive exams on business law and practical skills.
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 accredits businesses that handle complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting three or more estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, installer guarantees, permitting fees and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Bakersfield
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Bakersfield?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $62–$165 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $82–$206 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,237–$3,712 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,567 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Bakersfield 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.