Your Central Air Conditioning Repair questions, answered
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does AC repair cost near me?
AC repair costs$50 to $150 per hour, depending on the project. Most AC repairs cost $125 to $459 on average for jobs such as a tune-up, freon recharge, fan motor repair, or capacitor replacement. AC services can be expensive due to their training, expertise, and licensing requirements.
Do nearby air conditioning repair companies offer free estimates?
Most air conditioner repair companies offer free on-site estimates to diagnose any issues. Some AC repair companies charge a $75 to $200 service call, which gets credited back or covers the first hour of work when hired. Contact at least three AC services upfront to compare before hiring.
How to tell if your AC unit needs fixing?
Signs your AC unit needs repair:
The AC unit won't turn on.
The AC is running but not cooling the house.
The thermostat display is blank.
Strange noises are coming from your AC system.
The indoor AC unit is leaking water.
It keeps turning on and off.
There’s a bad smell coming from the vents.
Your utility bills are unusually high.
Is it time to repair or replace my air conditioner?
Most AC technicians recommend replacing air conditioner units if they are 15 years or older. Some pros use the $5,000 rule by taking the equipment's age and multiplying by the repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, consider new air conditioning installation.
How often should you have your air conditioner serviced?
Experts recommend servicing your home's air conditioning and heating systems once a year. The AC should be inspected, cleaning, and serviced to ensure it operates efficiently during important times. If an AC is not serviced, dust accumulates, making the system work harder and increases energy bills. An AC tune-up costs $70 to $200 for basic maintenance.
Does homeowners insurance cover AC repair and maintenance?
Homeowners insurance only covers AC damage caused by covered perils such as falling trees, fires, lightning strikes, wind, vandalism, and sometimes flooding. The policy does not cover accidental damage or normal wear and tear.
Do you tip AC repair technicians?
AC repair technicians do not expect a tip. However, if they go above and beyond or spend more time than expected, a cold drink, hot lunch, or $10 to $20 tip is appreciated.
How to find and hire the best air conditioner repair service?
Start by searching our list of top-rated ac repair services in your area. After finding and contacting potential candidates:
Get at least three in-person estimates to compare. Avoid getting AC repair quotes over the phone.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
Select companies that are licensed, bonded, and experienced.
Verify their insurance, worker’s compensation, and bond guarantees.
Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Check to see if they are members of the North American Technician Excellence (NATE), Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), or the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).
Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
Ask for a full itemized estimate in writing.
Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.
After asking questions and verifying their credentials, hire the best air conditioning service near you.
What questions should I ask AC repair companies in my area?
When looking for home ac repair companies, ask them the following questions:
How long have you been in business?
Can you provide testimonials and references from past customers?
Will the technician inspect the entire air conditioning system, including the ductwork?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Are your technicians certified by professional organizations such as AHRI, EPA 608, or NATE?
If my AC is under warranty, are you certified to do warranty work for this brand?
Do you provide 24/7 emergency AC service in case something goes wrong?
How long will the project take?
Do I need permits, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
Can you provide me a written estimate or contract?
What’s your payment schedule?
Are financing options available for larger repairs?
What do I need to provide to get started?
Reviews for Washington air conditioning repair services
Recent success stories from people in the Washington area.
Theodore S.
I will wait a few days before I submit my review. Air in the lines is one thing to check for plus the noise from the furnace. I hear water going into the tank but I guess this is normal.
Akinfe Air
Jennifer B.
Couldn't have found a better ac man. Outstanding work and personality plus. Will remain a loyal customer and friend!
AZ HVAC LLC
Susan B.
I called them at 8 AM
They were at my house fixing the air conditioner by 10 AM
Very honest company
AZ HVAC
Bob J.
Franklin @ CoolClimate was Very efficient, Very knowledgeable, Very thorough, Very conscientious, and VERY PRICE COMPETITIVE. I would use his services again.
Cool Climate 360 Inc.
J R.
very skilled and professional Painter
Pjhandyman Services
Pablo V.
This was the most efficient and gratifying experience! Thanks Sami and the crew.
NS HVAC
Paul J.
An excellent experience on excavation and concrete pour and finish of a foundation and slab for a carport / garage. They followed my plans and worked with me on recommendations and solutions to grading conditions. John and his crew were a pleasure to work with and I look forward to working with them again!
Kalyx Green Design & Build
Mary-Lynne G.
WOW!!! The owner is the sweetest young lady ever. I wanted to spruce up my basement, and boy let me tell you, it was not in the best condition after the boys moved out to college, and now it's redesigned and it even sparkles. She was extremely knowledgeable and thoughtful and found ways to tie in my style, my husband's budget, and my boy's memorabilia. Again the basement is such a calm space now because of this lovely designer. I could go on but for now, I'd say if you need some assistance, to give her a call.
SIDC HOMES
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Nearby air conditioning repair services in and around Washington