Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different types of air conditioner systems on the West Des Moines market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will streamline your company hunt.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 popular for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- 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 different rooms in your home.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, flexible installation options, and higher energy efficiency.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner systems have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide peaceful operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for West Des Moines condos, townhomes, and apartments. These budget-friendly, convenient 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 set up their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your West Des Moines AC Repair Service
You likely want a quick solution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before recruiting a repair company, it's important to carefully investigate how well it fits your home's needs. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Iowa's Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Board licenses refrigeration, sheet metal, HVAC, and hydronic contractors. Apprentices, journeymen, and master technicians need individual licenses, but "helpers" under a journeyman or master do not.
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
Check customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits contractors that respond to complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's common for even the best AC repair businesses to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a provider 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 consider additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in West Des Moines
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in West Des Moines?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $61–$163 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $82–$204 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,224–$3,673 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,551 |
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
How quickly can an HVAC company in West Des Moines respond to emergency repair requests?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
