They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when talking about your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve common AC issues.
Learning how your AC works and the typical problems it faces will enable you to fix easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money on minor service calls, but knowing when to reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into catastrophic 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 Sacramento if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.
Here are a few of the frequent questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:
1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?
Cleaning an air conditioning system is a good way to make sure it operates efficiently, and potentially 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 contaminants 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 force air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow easily through the system.
Replacement filters can be purchased at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, jotting down 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 hoping to buy something similar.
For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Bishop’s HVAC to do regular maintenance on your unit. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.
2. How Should I Clean the Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to ensuring your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your cooling system is an easy way to increase 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 lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back into your home so it can take in more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils can help them release heat more easily.
To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:
1) First, shut off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip the power switch off, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.
2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can enter the interior of the unit. Then, being cautious not to stress any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.
3) Apply 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 brands foaming solutions that are applied with your garden hose.
4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most cleaners, it's advised that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a small period of time to attack the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray very hard, because that could harm the coils or fins!
5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the coils and fins 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 much it's used. That said, experts say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your system is through AC conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Bishop’s HVAC features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as changing out the dirty filter and repairing 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 Sacramento.
4. What's the Right Size of Air Conditioner?
Selecting the right size of air conditioner for your home is vital for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:
- Square footage: The total area of the space you want to cool is one of the most important factors. More expansive spaces necessitate more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which could decrease your cooling needs.
- Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler climate.
- Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, in particular when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of residents: More people in the house produce greater body heat, which can impact your cooling needs.
- Present HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a starting point for deciding what you need.
Due to the fact the size of your air conditioner is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will probably want a professional opinion. At Bishop’s HVAC, 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 Bishop’s HVAC is known for superb air conditioning installation in Sacramento.
5. What Does My Air Conditioner Cost?
While prices vary depending on the type of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new air conditioner 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 of an air conditioner is impacted 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 can impact the design.
Realize these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get several quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Sacramento, get in touch with Bishop’s HVAC. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, explain the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?
Air conditioning 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 AC 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:
- Inadequate airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't adequately 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 getting low on refrigerant, it may become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
- Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using the air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to operate in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.
Bishop’s HVAC is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Sacramento.
At Bishop’s HVAC, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our qualified 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 Sacramento and nearby areas.
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 Sacramento. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Call Bishop’s HVAC today at 916-591-6889 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!