Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of HVAC systems on the Columbus market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will ease your company hunt.
- 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 Columbus 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 AC 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 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.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner 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 implies, portable AC 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 preferred for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Columbus AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the most suitable company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Ohio's Construction Industry Licensing Board licenses and regulates HVAC and refrigeration companies throughout the state. We recommend verifying a company's licensing information by visiting the Board's website.
You should also confirm 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 contractors 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 provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting three or more estimates to find the best value. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about emergency repair availability, permitting fees, manufacturer warranties and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Columbus
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Columbus?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$170 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $85–$213 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,277–$3,832 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,618 |
How often should Columbus homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Columbus 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.