Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionersystem you have, you'll feel more empowered in your company search. Brandon HVAC contractors have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 a common choice for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Brandon apartments, townhomes, 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 deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner units have an outdoor 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 consistent, precise 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Brandon AC Repair Service
With Brandon's blazing heat, AC problems are urgent to fix for your safety and comfort. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you're sure a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
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.
You should also check a company has sufficient liability coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if something gets damaged 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 businesses that handle complaints professionally 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting contacting at least three different companies to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, installer guarantees, emergency repair availability and manufacturer warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Brandon
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Brandon?
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 |
Why is my AC 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?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Brandon 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.