Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Florence HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can adapt their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, individual room temperature control, and flexible installation options.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Florence apartments, townhomes, and condos. These compact, affordable 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Florence AC Repair Service
With Florence's blazing heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you know a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
To work in the Palmetto State, HVAC companies must earn a Mechanical Contractor license from the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation. New applicants must pass a comprehensive trade exam and present their business registration certificate. Companies from Texas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, Georgia, and Utah can apply for a license by reciprocity.
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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB recognizes contractors that resolve 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 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 include additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Florence
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Florence?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $59–$158 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $79–$198 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,186–$3,557 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,502 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioning capacitor
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
