Answered: How to Clean Your AC and Four Other Cooling Questions

They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when discussing your air conditioner. While challenging 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.

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

Your Air conditioner 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 technician for air conditioning repair in Plover if you're not sure about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioning system is an effective way to make sure it operates efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most effective action you can take on your own is to change the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, 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 permitting air to flow easily through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC expert. 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 hoping to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at Point Heating & Cooling to do scheduled maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

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

In addition to ensuring your indoor air conditioner equipment is operating efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system is a quick 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 outside air. This lowers 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. 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, rather than turning the thermostat off.

2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can enter the insides 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, beginning 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 in the form of 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 brief period of time to attack the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Be careful 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 components 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 changes depending on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how frequently it's used. However, industry 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 regular conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Point Heating & Cooling 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 as long as it can, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Plover.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Finding the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to consider when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

• Square footage: The total area of the space you have to cool is one of the key factors. Larger spaces require more cooling power.
• Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which can decrease your cooling needs.
• Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler environment.
• Number of windows: Windows frequently let in heat, in particular when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
• Number of residents: More people in the house produce more body heat, which may influence your cooling needs.
• Existing HVAC system: The size and productivity 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 probably want a professional opinion. At Point Heating & Cooling, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other variables such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Point Heating & Cooling is known for superb air conditioning installation in Plover.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices differ depending on the type of the unit and your home’s unique specifications, a new air conditioner 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 crafted to be exceptionally efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The cost 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 along with federal regulations that necessitate changes to the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always a good idea to get several quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Plover, reach out to Point Heating & Cooling. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

An AC 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 AC is experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical reasons for AC freezing up:

• Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a plugged air filter, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
• Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is getting low on refrigerant, it could become too cold and freeze up. This is often a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
• Frigid outdoor temperatures: Operating your air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to perform 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 contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

Point Heating & Cooling is your Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Plover.

At Point Heating & Cooling, we strive to make your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our knowledgeable 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 their first call for air conditioning repair in Plover and nearby towns.

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

Phone Point Heating & Cooling today at 715-814-9741 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!