Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioner units on the Hillsboro market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will streamline your company research.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split air conditioner systems have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, higher energy efficiency, and flexible installation options.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They offer quiet operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Hillsboro 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 air conditioner users set up 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 consistent, precise temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to various rooms in your home.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable AC 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 preferred for condos, apartments, or individual rooms.
How to Choose Your Hillsboro 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
The Oregon Building Codes Division issues multiple different HVAC licenses depending on the scope of a company's work. Companies with less experience or who primarily subcontract might hold a limited license, while the most experienced will hold a specialty license.
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 accredits businesses that resolve complaints professionally and honor their warranties.
It's normal 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 value. A good estimate should list additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, and the emergency repair process.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Hvac Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Hillsboro
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Hillsboro?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $68–$180 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $90–$225 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,353–$4,059 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,714 |
How often should Hillsboro homeowners have their AC systems serviced?
What do I do if my AC is running but not cooling?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
