Common Types of Air Conditioners
By understanding which type of air conditionermodel you have, you'll feel more confident in your company search. Napa HVAC technicians have experience with different AC makes and models, and they can customize their skills to your needs.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Napa 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 air conditioner users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable AC units 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
How to Choose Your Napa AC Repair Service
With Napa's extreme heat, AC problems are urgent to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't race 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
California HVAC contractors need a C-20 (Warm-Air Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning) license from the Department of Consumer Affairs. The application process involves comprehensive exams on business law and practical skills.
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
Read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that respond to complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair providers to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting contacting at least three different companies to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about permitting fees, installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Napa
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Napa?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $70–$187 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $93–$233 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,399–$4,196 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,772 |
What are some signs that I should call an HVAC repair company?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Brokencapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Improperly sized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
