They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely accurate when discussing your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to experts, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve common AC issues.

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

Your Air conditioning unit is a fundamental element 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 Booneville if you're not sure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

Here are a few of the common questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

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

The most important action you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating throughout your home. If your AC filter becomes clogged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it should in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow easily through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most popular home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased 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 leave 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 hoping to buy something similar.

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

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is working efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system is an easy way to improve its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.

The coils, which are attached to 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 into your home so it can absorb more heat from the air in your home's interior. Washing the fins and the coils will help them release heat more effectively.

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, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the inside of the unit. Then, being careful not to pull hard on any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, first at the top and then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as in the form of foaming solutions that are applied with 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 short period of time to attack the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Take care 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 unit 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 much it's used. That said, industry experts say you should start thinking about air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to make the most of your HVAC is through AC conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Booneville Heating & Cooling features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as putting in a new filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Booneville.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is critical for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to think about when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:

  • Square footage: The amount of space you need to cool is one of the key factors. More expansive spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which should minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you reside in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler environment.
  • Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of residents: More people in the house means additional body heat, which may impact your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and productivity of your current system can provide a place to start for deciding what you need.

Due to the fact the size of your AC is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will almost certainly want a professional opinion. At Booneville Heating & Cooling, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other variables such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Booneville Heating & Cooling is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Booneville.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices fluctuate depending on the brand of the unit and your home’s unique specifications, a new AC 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 designed to be extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price of an air conditioner is affected 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 necessitate changes to the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always smart to get at least a few quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Booneville, reach out to Booneville Heating & Cooling. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a no-cost estimate, describe the plan and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze 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 experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some common reasons 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, 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 become too cold and freeze up. This is usually a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using an air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to work in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Booneville Heating & Cooling is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Booneville.

At Booneville Heating & Cooling, we will make your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our skilled professionals 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 the first choice for air conditioning repair in Booneville and the surrounding towns.

If you’re seeking to upgrade or its time for a replacement, we’ve got you covered there too, with our top-notch air conditioning installation in Booneville. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Contact Booneville Heating & Cooling today at 662-269-8716 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!