They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly 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 general AC issues.
Learning how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to tackle little problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you cash on minor service calls, but realizing when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.
Your Air conditioning unit is a fundamental component 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 Yukon if you're unsure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’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 your AC is a good way to make sure it operates efficiently, and possibly could extend the life of your unit.
The most significant action you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter captures dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those particulates from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes clogged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it is supposed to in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow easily through the system.
Replacement filters can be purchased 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 correct filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, noting the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also a smart idea to note the filtration level of the current filter if you are trying to buy something similar.
For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning to do regular maintenance on your system. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.
2. How Are the Coils on My Air Conditioner Cleaned?
In addition to making certain that your indoor AC unit is operating efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC is a quick way to boost its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.
The coils, which include extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant into the outside air. This lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can absorb more heat from the air in your home's interior. Washing the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more efficiently.
To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:
1) First, shut off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip off the the on/off switch, instead of turning the thermostat off.
2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the interior of the unit. Then, taking care not to stress any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.
3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with your garden hose.
4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most brands, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a small period of time to dissolve the grime and then softly 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 components to dry before turning the unit back on.
3. What Is the Average Lifespan of My Air Conditioner?
The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how much it's used. Having said that, pros say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to make the most of your HVAC is through regularly scheduled conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and fixing 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 Yukon.
4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:
- Square footage: The amount of space you need to cool is one of the key factors. Bigger spaces require more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which should reduce your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you are living 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 frequently let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of occupants: More people in the house means more body heat, which can affect your cooling needs.
- Present HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a starting point for deciding what you need.
Given that the size of your cooling system is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we take the time to fully understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Yukon.
5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?
While prices vary depending on the kind of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new AC 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 designed to be extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.
The price tag of an air conditioner is affected 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 can impact the design.
Realize these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always a good idea to get several quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Yukon, contact Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning. We will provide you with a free estimate, explain the plan and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
Air conditioning freezing up can be caused by multiple factors, all of which boil down to the system's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than likely time for air conditioning repair.
Here are some common reasons for AC freezing up:
- Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged air filter, obstructed return air ducts or a failing fan.
- Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is running low on refrigerant, it can grow too cold and freeze up. This is usually a consequence of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
- Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Operating your air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to function in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.
Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Yukon.
At Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we will make your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our skilled professionals 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 Yukon and nearby areas.
If you’re looking to upgrade or its time for a replacement, we’ve got you covered there too, with our first-class air conditioning installation in Yukon. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Phone Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning today at 405-494-7444 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!
