They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when talking about your air conditioner. While challenging repairs are best left to professionals, it’s helpful to have a practical understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve common AC issues.

Learning how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to tackle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you cash on minor service calls, but understanding when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.

Your AC is an important component 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 New Castle if you're unsure about any aspect of your AC'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 conditioning system is a smart way to make sure it works efficiently, and possibly could extend the life of your unit.

The most significant thing you can do on your own is to change 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 is supposed to in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most popular 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 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 seasoned professionals like the crew at Central Heating & Plumbing to do routine maintenance on your system. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outside 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 include extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant to the outdoors. This lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back into your home so it can take in more heat from the air inside your home. Cleaning the fins and the coils will help them release heat more effectively.

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 reach the inside of the unit. Then, taking care not to strain 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 on the market 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 advised that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a small period of time to attack the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Be careful 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 unit 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 often it's used. Having said that, industry 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 air conditioner is through AC conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Central Heating & Plumbing consists of 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 possible, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in New Castle.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Picking out the right size of air conditioner for your home is crucial for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to consider 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 most important 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 are living in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to someone living in a cooler climate.
• Number of windows: Windows often let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
• Number of residents: More people in the house produce greater body heat, which can affect your cooling needs.
• Present HVAC system: The size and effectiveness of your current system can provide a starting point for determining what you need.

Because the size of your air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Central Heating & Plumbing, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s insulation level and size. This attention to detail and dedication to customer service is why Central Heating & Plumbing is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in New Castle.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices vary depending on the type 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 thing is that new air conditioners are developed to be exceptionally 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 can impact 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 considering air conditioning replacement in New Castle, reach out to Central Heating & Plumbing. We will 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?

An air conditioner freezing up can be a consequence of a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the system's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent reasons for AC freezing up:

• Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't adequately 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 running low on refrigerant, it could become too cold and freeze up. This is often the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
• Frigid outdoor temperatures: Running your air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to function in temperatures below 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.

Central Heating & Plumbing is the Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in New Castle.

At Central Heating & Plumbing, we strive to make your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our qualified specialists 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 New Castle and the surrounding cities.

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

Call Central Heating & Plumbing today at 724-401-1843 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!