Common Types of Air Conditioners
There are a few different varieties of air conditioners on the Olympia market. While HVAC professionals can work with most types, knowing which one you have will streamline your company hunt.
- Portable air conditioners: As the name implies, 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 offer quiet operation, improved energy efficiency, ductwork options, and more cooling capability versus mini-splits.
- Ductless mini-split: Ductless mini-splits have an exterior unit and one or more indoor units, with no ductwork required. They offer individual room temperature control, flexible installation options, and higher energy efficiency.
- Window ACs: Window air conditioners are a popular choice for Olympia townhomes, condos, 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 deploy 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 precise, consistent temperature control. They feature a central unit that cools and purifies outside air and sends it through ducts to different rooms in your home.
How to Choose Your Olympia AC Repair Service
You likely want a swift resolution for your air conditioner's problem. However, before hiring a repair company, it's important to take the time to research if they're ideal for your dwelling. Here are a few essential steps to follow.
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
Read 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 business if most reviewers had subpar experiences.
Compare Estimates
We suggest getting three or more estimates to find the best cost and services. Get a written copy of each quote, and learn more about manufacturer warranties, permitting fees, installer guarantees and emergency repair availability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AC Repair in Olympia
What's the cost of an AC repair job in Olympia?
See the average costs for common AC repairs below.
| Common Repair | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Clogged air filter | $64–$170 |
| Electrical circuits | $200–$250 |
| Drainage problems | $100–$150 |
| Thermostat | $85–$213 |
| Refrigerant leak | $400–$1500 |
| Frozen condenser coils | $1,275–$3,826 |
| Fan or air blower issues | $150–$200 |
| Compressor replacement | $600–$1,616 |
What are some signs that I should call an HVAC repair company?
- Clogged air filter
- Dirty evaporator coil
- Fan motor failure
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty wiring
- Freon leak
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Improper refrigerant charge
- Malfunctioning capacitor
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Mold or mildew growth
- Oversized or undersized unit
- Refrigerant leak
- Water leaks
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
How long is my air conditioner's lifespan? When should I consider a replacement?
How quickly can an HVAC company in Olympia 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.
