They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly true when it comes to your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to professionals, 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 typical problems it faces will allow you to tackle simple problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you cash on minor service calls, but understanding when to reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.
Your AC is an important 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 York if you're not sure 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 an air conditioning system is a smart way to make sure it works 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 catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow efficiently through the system.
Replacement filters are available at most popular home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, taking care to write 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 trying to buy something similar.
For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Strine's to do routine maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.
2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is functioning efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC is a quick way to improve 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 cooler air outside. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can soak up more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more effectively.
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, instead of turning the thermostat off.
2) Lift off the top of the outdoor AC so you can enter the inside of the unit. Then, taking care not to strain any cords or attachments, safely put the top to the side.
3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, first at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as brands foaming solutions that are sprayed on 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 small period of time to dissolve the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray really 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 it 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, if maintained and how frequently it's used. That said, experts 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 regularly scheduled conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Strine's includes cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as it can, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in York.
4. What's the Right Size of Air Conditioner?
Choosing the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to consider when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:
- Square footage: The amount of space you want to cool is one of the key factors. Bigger spaces require more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which should reduce your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler environment.
- Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of occupants: More people in the house create more body heat, which may impact your cooling needs.
- Current HVAC system: The size and effectiveness of your current system can provide a starting point for identifying 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 Strine's, 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 dedication to customer service is why Strine's is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in York.
5. What Is the Cost of a New Air Conditioner?
While prices vary depending on the size of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing is that new air conditioners are designed to be exceedingly efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.
The cost 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 in addition to federal regulations that can impact the design.
Note these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in York, contact Strine's. We can provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the plan and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
An AC freezing up can be due to many 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 reasons for AC freezing up:
- Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a dirty air filter, obstructed 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 frequently the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
- Frosty outdoor temperatures: Running your air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to function in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.
Strine's is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in York.
At Strine's, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our qualified technicians 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 the premier choice for air conditioning repair in York and neighboring areas.
If you’re wanting to upgrade or its time for a new air conditioner, we’ve got you covered there too, with our top-notch air conditioning installation in York. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Contact Strine's today at 717-383-4479 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!