They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly 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 ordinary AC issues.

Understanding how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to tackle simple problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money on minor service calls, but realizing when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major 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 Dresden if you're uncertain about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioner is an effective way to make sure it operates efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most important 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 particulates from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still allowing air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most popular home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the right filter is to look at your old one before you head out for the store, jotting down the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also helpful 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 McFadden Heating & Cooling to do scheduled maintenance on your unit. They’ll examine 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 making certain that your indoor AC unit is operating efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner is an easy way to increase its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.

The coils, which have extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant into the outside air. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can take in more heat from the air within your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils is a way to 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 disconnect it completely from power, instead of turning the thermostat off.

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can enter the inside of the unit. Then, being careful not to strain any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and moving down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most products, it's recommended that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a brief period of time to loosen 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 the power back on.

3. What Is the Average Lifespan of My Air Conditioner?

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how frequently it's used. However, experts say you should start thinking about 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 McFadden Heating & Cooling features 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 possible, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Dresden.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Picking out the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

  • Square footage: The amount of space you need to cool is one of the key factors. Larger spaces demand more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which should minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to someone 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 people: More people in the house create more body heat, which can affect your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a starting point for deciding what you need.

Given that the size of your AC is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At McFadden Heating & Cooling, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s insulation level and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why McFadden Heating & Cooling is known for superb air conditioning installation in Dresden.

5. What Is the Cost of a New Air Conditioner?

While prices vary depending on the kind of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new AC 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 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 in addition to federal regulations that necessitate changes to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Dresden, contact McFadden Heating & Cooling. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, explain the plan and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

An air conditioner freezing up can be caused by many factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is very likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent triggers for AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't effectively absorb heat. This could be due to a plugged air filter, something stopping air from flowing through the return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is starting to get low on refrigerant, it can grow too cold and freeze up. This is often because of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Operating the air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to work in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

McFadden Heating & Cooling is your Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Dresden.

At McFadden Heating & Cooling, we strive to make your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our skilled specialists 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 Dresden and nearby towns.

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

Call McFadden Heating & Cooling today at 519-683-2339 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!