They say knowledge is power, and that’s undoubtedly the truth when it comes to your air conditioner. While challenging repairs are best left to experts, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve ordinary AC issues.
Understanding how your AC works and the typical problems it faces will allow you to fix easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you cash on minor service calls, but knowing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.
Your Air conditioning unit is a fundamental element of your home comfort. Because of that, you should always err on the side of caution and call a NATE-certified professional for air conditioning repair in Cape Girardeau if you're not sure about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.
Here are several common questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:
1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?
Cleaning an air conditioner is a smart way to make sure it runs efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.
The most significant step you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those particulates 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 pull air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still allowing air to flow freely through the system.
Replacement filters are sold at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the correct filter is to look at your old one before you go shopping, noting the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also helpful 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 seasoned professionals like the crew at Prestige Plumbing and Air to do scheduled maintenance on your system. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.
2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to making sure your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system 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 into your home so it can take in more heat from the air within your home. Washing the fins and the coils will help them release heat more efficiently.
To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:
1) First, turn off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to disconnect it completely from power, instead of turning the thermostat off.
2) Lift off the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the insides of the unit. Then, being careful not to strain any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.
3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and moving down. Commercial coil cleaners are available and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as brands foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to your garden hose.
4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most cleaners, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a small period of time to attack the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray too hard, because that could ruin the coils or fins!
5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the components to dry before turning it back on.
3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?
The life span of an air conditioner changes depending on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how often it's used. That said, industry experts say you should start looking into air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to get maximum value from your air conditioner is through regularly scheduled conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Prestige Plumbing and Air consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and repairing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as it can, reach out to us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Cape Girardeau.
4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?
Selecting the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:
- Square footage: The amount of space you have to cool is one of the key factors. Larger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which can minimize your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you reside in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler climate.
- Number of windows: Windows often let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of people: More people in the house create more body heat, which can impact your cooling needs.
- Present HVAC system: The size and performance 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 essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Prestige Plumbing and Air, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Prestige Plumbing and Air is known for superb air conditioning installation in Cape Girardeau.
5. What Is the Cost of a New Air Conditioner?
While prices differ depending on the size of the unit and your home’s unique specifications, a new air conditioning system generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. On the plus side, a benefit of air conditioning replacement is that new air conditioners are crafted to be exceptionally 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 along with federal regulations that necessitate changes to the design.
Know these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always smart to get numerous quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Cape Girardeau, contact Prestige Plumbing and Air. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a complimentary estimate, explain the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?
Air conditioning freezing up can be a consequence of a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the system's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your unit is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.
Here are some frequent reasons for AC freezing up:
- Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't sufficiently absorb heat. This could be due to a dirty air filter, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
- Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is starting to get low on refrigerant, it can become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently because of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
- Frosty outdoor temperatures: Running an air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to work in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.
Prestige Plumbing and Air is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Cape Girardeau.
At Prestige Plumbing and Air, we will make your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our skilled technicians are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and work on on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us their first call for air conditioning repair in Cape Girardeau and nearby towns.
If you’re looking to upgrade or its time for a new unit, we’ve got you covered there too, with our first-class air conditioning installation in Cape Girardeau. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Call Prestige Plumbing and Air today at 573-266-2048 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!