Answered: Cleaning the AC and Four Other Cooling Questions

They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly accurate when discussing your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve ordinary AC issues.

Learning how your AC works and the common problems it faces can empower you to tackle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money on minor service calls, but understanding when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.

Your Air conditioning unit is an important 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 Muldrow if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.

Here are several typical questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

Cleaning your AC is a smart way to make sure it runs efficiently, and possibly could extend the life of your unit.

The most significant step you can take 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 particulates from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes clogged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it should in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow easily through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered 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 head out for the store, jotting down 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 hoping to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Air Service Co. to do regular maintenance on your system. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.

2. How Are the Coils on My Air Conditioner Cleaned?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning 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 quick way to boost 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 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. Cleaning the fins and the coils can 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 disconnect it completely from power, instead of turning the thermostat off.

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

3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and moving 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 advised that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to loosen the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Take care not to spray very hard, because that could ruin 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. 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 much it's used. However, pros 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. Maintenance service from Air Service Co. features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and repairing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Muldrow.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Picking out the correct sized air conditioner for your home is vital for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

• Square footage: The size of the space you need to cool is one of the biggest factors. Larger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
• Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which could reduce your cooling needs.
• Climate: If you reside 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, in particular when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
• Number of people: More people in the house produce more body heat, which can influence your cooling needs.
• Existing HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a starting point 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 layout and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Air Service Co. is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Muldrow.

5. What Is the Cost of a New Air Conditioner?

While prices fluctuate depending on the size 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 news is that new air conditioners are crafted to be extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price tag 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 can impact the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Muldrow, contact Air Service Co.. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a complimentary estimate, make sure you understand the plan 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 a number 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 more than likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical causes of AC freezing up:

• Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't effectively 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 become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently because of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
• Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using an air conditioner when it's very 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: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

Air Service Co. is the Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Muldrow.

At Air Service Co., we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our knowledgeable 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 the premier choice for air conditioning repair in Muldrow and neighboring areas.

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 Muldrow. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Phone Air Service Co. today at 918-212-8943 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!