Common Types of Air Conditioners
HVAC technicians have the expertise to service most air conditioner varieties, but knowing more about what you have can be beneficial. Below, we'll outline each of the common AC types.
- Split ACs: Split air conditioner units have two main elements: one inside and one outside. They offer silent operation, enhanced efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Window-mounted ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Longview apartments, condos, and townhomes. These budget-friendly, convenient units are designed for cooling single rooms and small spaces, and they fit snugly in a window frame or dedicated wall slot. Many window AC users install their units without professional assistance, though technicians can still help with maintenance and repairs.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name suggests, 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 popular for apartments, condos, or individual rooms.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-split AC systems have an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer higher energy efficiency, flexible installation options, and individual room temperature control.
- 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 various rooms in your home.
How to Choose Your Longview AC Repair Service
While you might want to resolve your AC issue quickly, you should do some essential research 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 Washington State Department of Labor and Industries requires all HVAC company owners to hold a Construction Contractor license. To stay in good standing, they must have a tax ID number, hold a surety bond, and carry at least $250,000 in total liability coverage.
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 businesses that respond to complaints effectively and honor their warranties.
It's normal for even the best AC repair providers to have both positive and negative reviews. Read each one carefully, and avoid a business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We recommend getting at least three different quotes to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, installer guarantees, permitting fees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Longview
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Longview?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $63–$168 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $84–$210 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,259–$3,776 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,594 |
How do I know if my air conditioning system needs repair?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Coolant leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioningcapacitor
- Brokencompressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Incorrectly sized system
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Does my air conditioner need routine maintenance? If so, how often?
Is hiring an HVAC company better than doing the repair on my own?
Should my HVAC company have a private accreditation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
