AC Repair

The optimal performance and longevity of an air conditioning system hinge on regular maintenance. Professionals recommend that A/C units be serviced at least annually. The ideal time for this is in the spring, just before the hottest days of summer. During these professional service sessions, technicians not only clean the units but also check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, and look over all the myriad components that make up the system. They don't just check; they ensure everything is working the way it should—efficiently and effectively.

There are multiple signs that might indicate your air conditioning requires the attention of a trained professional. These include: strange and/or loud noises (e.g., grinding, squealing, and banging) that might suggest mechanical problems; weak airflow and inconsistent or "off" temperature control that might indicate poor refrigerant function or a faulty compressor; and high-energy bills that might suggest your air conditioning is working inefficiently for one of several possible reasons. Whether you notice one or several of these signs, it's a good idea to call in an HVAC professional to get a handle on both the what's and the why's.

Air conditioning systems have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, but many last significantly longer with proper care and high-quality construction. Most professionals that work on air conditioning units might think the same way. “Well, there's no harm in holding on to it if you think it has a good chance of lasting another 10 to 15 years. Quite a few systems I've worked on have weathered the storm just as well as those of my friends who've made the same system swap.”

An air conditioning unit can freeze for a number of reasons. It might have low refrigerant, poor airflow, or a problem with one of several mechanical components. Some might call it "Pernicious Circulation." Dirty air filters block the flow of air. Without proper circulation, the evaporator coil can get too cold and freeze. If the drain pan is too dirty, too clogged, or simply too stagnant, it can hold too much water. When the system is running, the pan should be emptying out, but if it's full of freezing-cold water, is it really doing anything? When is a half-full drain pan a full drain pan? It's a good thing drain pans don't refrigerate the water inside them, and it's a good thing recycle bins don't freeze.

To lower your energy bills and increase the lifespan of your AC system, it helps to make it more energy-efficient. A great way to do this is through regular maintenance, which can be as simple as keeping the air filters clean and replacing them if they're no longer up to par. You're also going to want to make sure that the insulation in your home is appropriate for the climate you live in. And finally, if you're using a traditional AC system, I recommend investing in a smart thermostat.

Air conditioning repair means addressing particular problems with your air conditioning system. On the other hand, replacement entails installing a new A/C unit. If your air conditioning system is somewhat new or has only small issues, it's typically more cost-effective to go ahead and make the repairs. If your air conditioning unit is old, constantly conking out, or has some major efficiency problems, though, replacement might be the way to go. An experienced HVAC technician can help you make the call on which route to take.

The prices of air conditioning repairs can be very different, even from one company to another, because they depend on the individual issue and the kind of air conditioning system. The repair services price list is generally like this: minor repairs, $100 to $500; medium repairs, $500 to $1,500; and major overhauls, $1,500 plus (or with some overhauls, you can sometimes negotiate a flat rate). Quite a few factors influence the price; here are the big ones: some parts are more expensive than others, some jobs are just plain harder to do, and some systems just aren't as easy to fix.

Homeowners can do a few basic maintenance tasks, but most air conditioning repairs need a pro. Why? Because doing complex repairs without complex knowledge can easily lead to more damage than was initially done and make your system totally ineligible for warranty coverage. There are simple things you can check that really are safe and smart for a homeowner to check: changing the air filter, cleaning the external unit, and making sure the thermostat isn't the problem. But call a pro if your repair involves figuring out the electrical system, any refrigerant issues, or anything else of a delicate or potentially explosive nature.

There are quite a few tasks that a homeowner can do to keep the AC system running well. One is to keep filters clean. This is essential for the efficiency of the system and the comfort indoors. The rule of thumb with filters is that if you can't see through them, they're filthy. At that point, the airflow is compromised. And how often must a filter be cleaned or changed? That depends. Different systems have different requirements, and even the same system may have different needs at different times. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, for the most part, and you can't go wrong.

Choosing a trustworthy air conditioning repair service