They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly accurate when discussing your air conditioner. While challenging 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.
Learning how your AC works and the common problems it faces will enable you to deal with simple problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but realizing when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.
Your Air conditioning unit is an essential 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 Portland if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.
Here are some typical questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:
1. What Is the Best Way to Clean an Air Conditioner?
Cleaning your AC is a smart way to make sure it works efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.
The most significant action you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter captures dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating throughout your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still permitting 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 expert. A good way to make sure you get the proper 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 wanting to buy something similar.
For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at All Solutions Heating & Cooling to do routine 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 Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?
In addition to making sure your indoor AC unit is functioning efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC is an easy 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 cools the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can soak up more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleansing 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, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.
2) Lift off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the insides of the unit. Then, taking care not to stress any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.
3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market 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 brands, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to dissolve the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Take care not to spray really hard, because that could damage the coils or fins!
5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the unit to dry before turning the power back on.
3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?
The life span of an air conditioner changes depending on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how much it's used. However, experts say you should start looking into air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.
One of the best ways to get maximum value from your HVAC is through regular conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from All Solutions Heating & Cooling features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and mending 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 Portland.
4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?
Selecting the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:
- Square footage: The size of the space you have to cool is one of the key factors. Bigger spaces require more cooling power.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which can reduce 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 place.
- Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
- Number of occupants: More people in the house produce more body heat, which may affect your cooling needs.
- Existing HVAC system: The size and effectiveness of your current system can provide a jumping off point for determining what you need.
Given that the size of your AC is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At All Solutions Heating & Cooling, 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 commitment to customer service is why All Solutions Heating & Cooling is known for superb air conditioning installation in Portland.
5. What Does My Air Conditioner Cost?
While prices vary depending on the kind of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new air conditioning system generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing 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 affected 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 can impact the design.
Note these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always helpful to get several quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Portland, get in touch with All Solutions Heating & Cooling. We can provide you with a complimentary estimate, explain the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.
6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?
An air conditioner freezing up can be caused by a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.
Here are some typical reasons for AC freezing up:
- Inadequate airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged air filter, blocked 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 usually the result of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
- Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using an air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to function in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
- Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.
All Solutions Heating & Cooling is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Portland.
At All Solutions Heating & Cooling, we strive to make your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our knowledgeable technicians 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 their first call for air conditioning repair in Portland and neighboring areas.
If you’re planning to upgrade or its time for a new unit, we’ve got you covered there too, with our first-class air conditioning installation in Portland. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!
Call All Solutions Heating & Cooling today at 971-245-2459 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!
