Common Types of Air Conditioners
By knowing which type of air conditionerunit you have, you'll feel more confident in your provider search. San Ramon HVAC technicians 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 air from outside, purifies it, and sends it through ducts to different rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, individual room temperature control, and higher energy efficiency.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners 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.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioner systems 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 a common choice for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for San Ramon apartments, condos, and townhomes. These budget-friendly, convenient units are designed for cooling single rooms and small spaces, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your San Ramon AC Repair Service
With San Ramon's sweltering heat, AC problems are critical to fix for your comfort and safety. However, don't rush to sign a contract until you're sure 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.
You should also confirm a company has sufficient liability insurance coverage, even if your state doesn't require it. Choosing an insured company will protect you if accidents happen during work.
Read Customer Reviews
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that resolve complaints professionally 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 company if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
Obtain at least three detailed, written estimates from different companies for the best price. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, the emergency repair process, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in San Ramon
What's the cost of an AC repair job in San Ramon?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $66–$177 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $89–$221 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,328–$3,985 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,683 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
