Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner types, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll explain each of the common AC types.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, 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 a common choice for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
- 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.
- Split ACs: Split AC systems have two main elements: one inside and one outside. 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 Washington townhomes, apartments, and condos. 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 AC users deploy their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split ACs have an outdoor unit and multiple interior units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
How to Choose Your Washington 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 best company for your home.
Confirm the Company Is Properly Licensed and Insured
Ohio's Construction Industry Licensing Board licenses and regulates HVAC and refrigeration companies throughout the state. We recommend verifying a company's licensing information by visiting the Board's website.
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
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 three or more estimates to find the best pricing and offerings. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about installer guarantees, manufacturer warranties, emergency repair availability and permitting fees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Washington
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Washington?
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–$3,672 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,550 |
How often should Washington homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
When is the best time to replace an AC unit?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Washington 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.
