They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely the truth when discussing your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to professionals, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve ordinary AC issues.

Knowing how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to deal with 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 reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.

Your Air conditioning unit 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 Alliance if you're uncertain about any aspect of your AC'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 conditioning system is a good way to make sure it operates efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most effective step you can take on your own is to change the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those particulates from the air circulating inside 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 move air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most popular home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought from your local HVAC specialist. 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 a good idea to note the filtration level of the current filter if you are wanting to buy something similar.

For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces to do routine maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Should I Clean the Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your AC is an easy way to improve its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.

The coils, which have 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 into your home so it can absorb more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleaning the fins and the coils will 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 disconnect it completely from power, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the insides of the unit. Then, being cautious not to stress any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are available and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to 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 loosen the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray really 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 can vary based on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how often it's used. Having said that, pros say you should start looking into air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your HVAC is through AC conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as changing out the dirty filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as possible, reach out to us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Alliance.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital 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 most important factors. Bigger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which should decrease your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you reside 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 people: More people in the house create additional body heat, which may influence your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a starting point for deciding what you need.

Because the size of your air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s insulation level and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces is known for superb air conditioning installation in Alliance.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

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. The good news is that new air conditioners are developed to be exceedingly 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 require modifications to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to get several quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Alliance, reach out to Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a no-cost estimate, explain the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

An air conditioner 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 air conditioner is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is very likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical causes of 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 plugged air filter, something stopping air from flowing through the return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is running low on refrigerant, it can become too cold and freeze up. This is usually the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Cold outdoor temperatures: Running your air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to function in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Alliance.

At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our skilled professionals are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and are knowledgeable on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us the first choice for air conditioning repair in Alliance and neighboring areas.

If you’re wanting to upgrade or its time for a new unit, we’ve got you covered there too, with our first-rate air conditioning installation in Alliance. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Phone Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces today at 308-762-1613 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!