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 units.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable ACs 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.
- Split ACs: Split ACs have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, greater energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Central AC: These are the most common residential AC systems, 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.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Lafayette condos, townhomes, and apartments. 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 AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
How to Choose Your Lafayette AC Repair Service
With the sweltering Lafayette heat, AC issues are urgent to fix. However, to get the best possible outcome, it's critical to investigate different HVAC companies first. We recommend adhering to these steps as you prepare.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
According to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, a company must hold a mechanical contracting license to do ventilation, heating, air conditioning, ductwork, and refrigeration work. The application process involves a financial audit, criminal background check, business filing review, and closed-book exam.
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
Find customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for each company you're interested in. The BBB accredits businesses that handle complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair companies 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 providers for the best value. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about the emergency repair process, manufacturer warranties, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Lafayette
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Lafayette?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $60–$159 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $80–$199 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,195–$3,584 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,513 |
What month is best for getting an air conditioner replaced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Why should I hire an HVAC professional? Couldn't I repair my air conditioner myself?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Lafayette AC repair companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
