They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when it comes to your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve everyday AC issues.
Learning how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces will enable you to deal with simple problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but knowing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.
Your Air conditioner is a fundamental part of your home comfort. Because of that, you should always err on the side of caution and call a NATE-certified technician for air conditioning repair in Lawrence if you're uncertain about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.
Here are some 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 an effective way to make sure it operates efficiently, and possibly could extend the life of your unit.
The most significant thing you can do on your own is to swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it is supposed to in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still allowing air to flow easily through the system.
Replacement filters can be purchased at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the right filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, jotting down 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 wanting to buy something similar.
For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Scott Temperature to do scheduled maintenance on your system. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.
2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to ensuring your indoor air conditioning unit is functioning efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your AC is a quick 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 outside air. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can absorb more heat from the air within 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, turn off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip off the the on/off switch, rather than turning the thermostat off.
2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the inside of the unit. Then, taking care not to strain any cords or attachments, safely put the top to the side.
3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold 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 products, it's recommended that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a small period of time to loosen the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Be careful not to spray too hard, because that could harm the coils or fins!
5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the unit to dry before turning the power back on.
3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?
The life span of an air conditioner can vary based on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how much it's used. Having said that, industry experts say you should start thinking about air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to make the most of your system is through regular conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Scott Temperature includes cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as putting in a new filter and repairing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, reach out to us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Lawrence.
4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
Finding the right size of air conditioner for your home is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to think about when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:
- Square footage: The total area of the space you need to cool is one of the biggest factors. More expansive spaces demand more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which could decrease your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler place.
- Number of windows: Windows frequently let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of occupants: More people in the house produce additional body heat, which could affect your cooling needs.
- Current HVAC system: The size and productivity of your current system can provide a starting point for determining what you need.
Due to the fact the size of your AC is so important to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Scott Temperature, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other variables such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Scott Temperature is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Lawrence.
5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?
While prices fluctuate depending on the brand of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new air conditioning system generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing is that new air conditioners are developed to be extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.
The price of an air conditioner is influenced by several factors during the manufacturing process, such as the cost and availability of raw materials, manufacturing and labor costs as well as federal regulations that necessitate changes to the design.
Know these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always smart to get numerous quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Lawrence, get in touch with Scott Temperature. We can provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
An air conditioner freezing up can be due to many factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.
Here are some common triggers for AC freezing up:
- Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged air filter, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
- Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is running low on refrigerant, it could get too cold and freeze up. This is usually a consequence of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
- Frosty outdoor temperatures: Running an air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to operate in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.
Scott Temperature is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Lawrence.
At Scott Temperature, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our experienced professionals 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 their first call for air conditioning repair in Lawrence and nearby cities.
If you’re seeking to upgrade or its time for a replacement, we’ve got you covered there too, with our top-notch air conditioning installation in Lawrence. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Phone Scott Temperature today at 785-269-0465 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!