Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner models, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll describe each of the common AC systems.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide peaceful operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, portable air conditioners 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 condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer flexible installation options, higher energy efficiency, and individual room temperature control.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for West Lafayette condos, apartments, 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 install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- 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.
How to Choose Your West Lafayette AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research before committing to a repair service. Take the following steps to ensure you find the top-rated company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Indiana doesn't issue HVAC contractor licenses at the state level. However, many counties and cities still require licenses within their limits. Each local government can choose what exams a company owner must pass and what filings they need to submit.
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 recognizes contractors that respond to complaints professionally 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 provider if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest 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, manufacturer warranties, emergency repair availability and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in West Lafayette
What's the cost of an AC repair job in West Lafayette?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
Common Repair | Average Cost |
---|---|
Clogged air filter | $56–$149 |
Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
Thermostat | $75–$186 |
Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
Frozen condenser coils | $1,118–$3,354 |
Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
Compressor replacement | $600–$1,416 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Refrigerant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Faultycapacitor
- Defectivecompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
How often should West Lafayette homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
How many years until I should replace my AC unit?
How quickly can an HVAC company in West Lafayette respond to emergency repair requests?
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