They say knowledge is power, and that’s undoubtedly accurate when talking about your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve general AC issues.
Understanding how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to handle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but realizing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.
Your AC is an important element of your home comfort. Because of that, you should always err on the side of caution and call a NATE-certified specialist for air conditioning repair in Muldrow if you're unsure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.
Here are several frequent questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:
1. What Is the Best Way to Clean an Air Conditioner?
Cleaning an air conditioner is a smart way to make sure it runs efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.
The most effective thing you can do on your own is to swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow easily through the system.
Replacement filters are available at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC professional. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you head out for the store, noting the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also a good idea to note the filtration level of the current filter if you are hoping to buy something similar.
For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Air Service Co. to do routine maintenance on your unit. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.
2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to making certain that your indoor AC unit is operating efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outside unit of your air conditioner is a simple way to increase its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.
The coils, which are attached to extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant into the cooler air outside. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can soak up more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more easily.
To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:
1) First, shut down power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to disconnect it completely from power, instead of turning the thermostat off.
2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the insides of the unit. Then, taking care not to strain any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.
3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are applied with your garden hose.
4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most brands, it's advised that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to attack the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Be careful not to spray very hard, because that could damage the coils or fins!
5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the coils and fins to dry before turning the power back on.
3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?
The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how frequently it's used. Having said that, experts say you should start thinking about air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to get maximum value from your system is through regular conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Air Service Co. consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as it can, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Muldrow.
4. What's the Right Size of Air Conditioner?
Picking out the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:
- Square footage: The size of the space you have to cool is one of the most important factors. Larger spaces require more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which should decrease your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler place.
- Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of occupants: More people in the house means additional body heat, which could affect your cooling needs.
- Current HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a place to start for determining what you need.
Because the size of your AC is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Air Service Co., we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Air Service Co. is known for superb air conditioning installation in Muldrow.
5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?
While prices fluctuate depending on the size of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing is that new air conditioners are designed to be exceptionally efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.
The price of an air conditioner is impacted by several factors during the manufacturing process, such as the cost and availability of raw materials, manufacturing and labor costs in addition to federal regulations that necessitate changes to the design.
Realize these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get numerous quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Muldrow, get in touch with Air Service Co.. We will provide you with a free estimate, make sure you understand the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?
An AC freezing up can be brought on by multiple factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than likely time for air conditioning repair.
Here are some typical causes of AC freezing up:
- Inadequate airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged air filter, something stopping air from flowing through the return air ducts or a failing fan.
- Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is getting low on refrigerant, it may grow too cold and freeze up. This is usually the result of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
- Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using the air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to perform in temperatures of less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.
Air Service Co. is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Muldrow.
At Air Service Co., we strive to make your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our skilled specialists are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and are experienced on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us the premier choice for air conditioning repair in Muldrow and the surrounding areas.
If you’re seeking to upgrade or its time for a replacement, we’ve got you covered there too, with our first-rate air conditioning installation in Muldrow. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Phone Air Service Co. today at 918-215-7608 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!
