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

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

Your Air conditioner 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 Toledo if you're not sure about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

Here are some typical questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning your AC is a smart way to make sure it works efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most important 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 particulates from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the correct filter is to look at your old one before you head out 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 trying to buy something similar.

For thorough service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at Northwest Services to do routine maintenance on your system. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention 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 functioning efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC 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 into the outside air. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can take in more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more effectively.

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, instead of turning the thermostat off.

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

3) Apply 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 products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most products, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a brief 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 harm 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. 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, how often it's maintained and how much it's used. That said, 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. Tuneups from Northwest Services consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as changing out the dirty filter and fixing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, reach out to us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Toledo.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Choosing the right size of air conditioner for your home is vital for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to think about when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:

  • Square footage: The amount of space you want to cool is one of the biggest factors. Larger spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which could reduce your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you reside in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to someone 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 people: More people in the house means more body heat, which may influence your cooling needs.
  • Current 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 probably want a professional opinion. At Northwest Services, we take the time to fully understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other variables such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Northwest Services is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Toledo.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices fluctuate depending on the type 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 crafted to be extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price of an air conditioner is influenced 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 fluctuate. It's always helpful to get several quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Toledo, reach out to Northwest Services. We can provide you with a free estimate, describe the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

An AC freezing up can be caused by many factors, all of which boil down to the system's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your unit is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent causes of AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged 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 grow too cold and freeze up. This is usually because of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
  • Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Operating your air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to function in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

Northwest Services is the Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Toledo.

At Northwest Services, we strive to make your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our experienced specialists 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 first choice for air conditioning repair in Toledo and neighboring cities.

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

Phone Northwest Services today at 419-548-5017 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!