They say knowledge is power, and that’s undoubtedly true when discussing your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to experts, 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 common problems it faces can empower you to handle little problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money on minor service calls, but understanding when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into catastrophic repairs.

Your AC 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 Richmond if you're not sure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

Here are several common questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

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

The most effective action you can take on your own is to swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches 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 catches the airborne debris while still allowing air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought from your local HVAC professional. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you head out for the store, taking care to write down the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also a smart idea 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 seasoned professionals like the crew at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. to do regular maintenance on your system. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Should I Clean the Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioner equipment is working efficiently, it’s important 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 into the cooler air outside. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can soak up more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleaning the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more efficiently.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, turn off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip the power switch off, rather than turning the thermostat off.

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the insides of the unit. Then, taking care not to pull hard on any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are available 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 cleaners, 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 very 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 Can Air Conditioners Work?

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. Having said that, experts say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get maximum value from your system is through regular conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Refrigeration Systems Ltd. includes cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and fixing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Richmond.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?

Selecting the proper size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you have to cool is one of the key factors. More expansive spaces demand more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which can decrease your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler climate.
  • Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of residents: More people in the house means more body heat, which could impact your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a starting point for determining what you need.

Due to the fact the size of your AC is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Refrigeration Systems Ltd., 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 commitment to customer service is why Refrigeration Systems Ltd. is known for superb air conditioning installation in Richmond.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices vary depending on the kind of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good news is that new air conditioners are crafted 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.

Realize these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to get several quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Richmond, contact Refrigeration Systems Ltd.. We can provide you with a complimentary estimate, explain the procedure 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 number 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 more than likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical causes of AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't sufficiently absorb heat. This could be due to a plugged 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 become too cold and freeze up. This is usually a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Using the air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to work in temperatures of less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Refrigeration Systems Ltd. is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Richmond.

At Refrigeration Systems Ltd., we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our skilled professionals are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and work on on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us the premier choice for air conditioning repair in Richmond and nearby cities.

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

Phone Refrigeration Systems Ltd. today at 778-693-2532 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!