They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely the truth when talking about your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve general AC issues.

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

Your Air conditioning unit is a fundamental part 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 Alice if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

Here are some common questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioner is a smart way to make sure it runs efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most effective thing you can do 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 particulates from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC professional. A good way to make sure you get the correct filter is to look at your old one before you head out for the store, 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 trying to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Rescue Heating & Air 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 problems.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to ensuring your indoor AC unit is working efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system is an easy way to boost 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 to the outdoors. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can take in more heat from the air in your home's interior. Washing the fins and the coils can help them release heat more easily.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, shut down power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip off the the on/off switch, instead of turning the thermostat off.

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

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, first at the top and moving 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 suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to attack the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray too hard, because that could damage the coils or fins!

5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the components to dry before turning it back on.

3. How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The life span of an air conditioner can vary based on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how frequently it's used. However, pros say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to make the most of your HVAC is through regular conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Rescue Heating & Air consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as putting in a new 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 Alice.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to consider when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:

  • Square footage: The size of the space you need to cool is one of the biggest factors. More expansive spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which can minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler climate.
  • Number of windows: Windows often let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of occupants: More people in the house means more body heat, which could affect your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and effectiveness of your current system can provide a starting point for identifying what you need.

Given that the size of your air conditioner is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will probably want a professional opinion. At Rescue Heating & Air, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Rescue Heating & Air is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Alice.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices fluctuate depending on the kind 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. On the plus side, a benefit of air conditioning replacement is that new air conditioners are developed 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 as well as federal regulations that can impact the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always smart to get several quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Alice, get in touch with Rescue Heating & Air. We can provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be a consequence of multiple factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent triggers for AC freezing up:

  • Inadequate 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 become too cold and freeze up. This is usually because of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Cold outdoor temperatures: Running the air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to work 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.

Rescue Heating & Air is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Alice.

At Rescue Heating & Air, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our knowledgeable technicians 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 their first call for air conditioning repair in Alice and neighboring areas.

If you’re seeking 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 Alice. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Phone Rescue Heating & Air today at 361-265-4371 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!