They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly the truth when it comes to your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to professionals, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve common AC issues.

Knowing how your AC works and the common problems it faces can empower you to handle 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 reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major 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 professional for air conditioning repair in Yukon if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioner is a smart 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 swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to pull 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 specialist. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you go shopping, taking care to write 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 wanting to buy something similar.

For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning to do routine maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.

2. How Are the Coils on My Air Conditioner Cleaned?

In addition to making sure your indoor AC unit is operating efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC is a simple way to improve 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 lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can absorb more heat from the air within your home. Washing 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, shut down 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 enter the insides of the unit. Then, being cautious not to strain any cords or attachments, safely put the top to the side.

3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, first at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are available and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as brands 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 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. Take care not to spray too hard, because that could harm the coils or fins!

5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the coils and fins to dry before turning the unit back on.

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

The life span of an air conditioner can vary based on the type of unit, its quality, if maintained and how much it's used. Having said that, 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 system is through AC conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning includes 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 Yukon.

4. What's the Right Size of Air Conditioner?

Choosing the correct sized air conditioner for your home is vital for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors 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 most important factors. More expansive spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which could reduce your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler place.
  • Number of windows: Windows frequently 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 may affect your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a jumping off point for identifying what you need.

Due to the fact the size of your air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we take the time to fully 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 focus on customer service is why Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Yukon.

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

While prices vary depending on the type of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new air conditioner 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 price tag 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 can impact the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always a good idea to get several quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Yukon, reach out to Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?

An AC freezing up can be a consequence of multiple factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent triggers for AC freezing up:

  • Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly 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 getting low on refrigerant, it could get too cold and freeze up. This is usually the result of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Using the air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to perform in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Yukon.

At Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we will make your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our skilled 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 Yukon and the surrounding areas.

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

Call Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning today at 405-494-7444 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!