Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionerunit you have, you'll feel more empowered in your provider search. Tucson HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They provide quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Tucson 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 air conditioner users deploy 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioners 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.
How to Choose Your Tucson 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 carefully investigate how well it fits your home's needs. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
The Arizona Registrar of Contractors has multiple different license classifications for HVAC contractors. For a C-39 (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) classification, a contractor must have four years of experience and pass two exams. Contractors might also have a C-38 classification allowing them to work with heating, ductwork, and evaporative cooling systems.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if mishaps arise during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes contractors that respond to complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair companies to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best price. A good estimate should factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, installer guarantees, and manufacturer warranties.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Tucson
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Tucson?
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 | $1,236–$3,709 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,566 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.