Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditioner you have, you'll feel more confident in your contractor search. Dothan HVAC professionals have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer peaceful operation, greater energy 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Dothan apartments, condos, and townhomes. 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 AC users set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, 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.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
How to Choose Your Dothan AC Repair Service
With Dothan's blazing heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your safety and comfort. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you're convinced a company is the best fit for you. We recommend following these steps in your research.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Alabama has a dedicated Board of Heating, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Contractors that issues licenses and enforces regulations. To get a heating/air conditioning or refrigeration contractor license, a businessowner must pass an exam, pay an annual fee, register their company, and get at least a $15,000 performance bond. The state has a license reciprocity agreement with Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, South Carolina, and West Virginia, but each businessowner must take four hours of continuing education in Alabama per year to stay in active standing.
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 businesses that handle complaints effectively 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 providers 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.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Dothan
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Dothan?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $58–$154 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $77–$193 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,158–$3,473 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,466 |
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
