Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more empowered in your company search. Norfolk HVAC contractors have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Central AC: These are the most common home air conditioners, offering consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to different rooms in your home.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Norfolk condos, apartments, and townhomes. These budget-friendly, convenient 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 install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
How to Choose Your Norfolk AC Repair Service
With the intense Norfolk heat, AC issues are top priority to fix. However, to get the best possible outcome, it's critical to thoroughly research different HVAC companies first. We recommend adhering to these steps as you prepare.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation issues HVAC licenses at the apprentice, journeyman, master, and contractor levels.
You should also verify 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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that handle 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 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 list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Norfolk
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Norfolk?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $59–$157 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $79–$197 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,180–$3,539 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,494 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Norfolk AC repair companies?
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