Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different kinds of air conditioning units on the Lake Oswego market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will simplify your company hunt.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name hints, portable air conditioner units 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 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.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioners have two main elements: one indoors and one outdoors. They provide silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC units 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.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Lake Oswego apartments, townhomes, and condos. 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 air conditioner users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
How to Choose Your Lake Oswego AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should carefully investigate what's out there before signing a contract with 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
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.
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 something gets damaged 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 businesses that resolve complaints effectively 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 company 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 factor in additional fees such as permitting costs. You should also ask about manufacturer warranties, the emergency repair process, and installer guarantees.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Lake Oswego
How much can I expect to pay for AC repair in Lake Oswego?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$172 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $86–$214 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,287–$3,860 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,630 |
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
What industry certifications should I look for when researching Lake Oswego AC repair companies?
My HVAC problem is urgent. How quickly could a company respond?
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