AC Repair: Most Common Questions from Homeowners

Questions You Have About AC Repair But Didn’t Know Whom to Ask

Most homeowners fully appreciate air conditioning without fully understanding much about the process. They know where to find the thermostat and know how to change the settings to achieve the desired comfort. They can locate the basic components that interact with the family: the central air cabinet—usually in a closet or basement, the outdoor thing-a-ma-jig, and the vents. Beyond these basics, air conditioning remains a mystery to many people. Here are some basic questions that might uncover some air conditioning mysteries.

Why does air conditioning require indoor AND outdoor units?

Whether you observe the most basic window AC unit or a massive rooftop unit that cools an office complex, indoor and outdoor components are required to perform the function properly. The reason for this is that air conditioning uses “heat pump” technology. Our senses tell us air conditioners are pumping cool air into our homes, but the science behind the process is that air conditioners pump heat out of the house. The outdoor portion of the air conditioner deposits all of that heat outdoors.

What determines the proper size air conditioner?

HVAC professionals investigate a particular space and consider a wide range of factors that affect heating and cooling; the investigation is called a “load calculation.” The factors being considered include the square footage of the space, the number and size of openings, such as windows and doors, and the type of insulation. It also includes outdoor factors, such as orientation to the southern sun and trees that provide shade.

Air conditioners are measured in tons; typical residential air conditioners range between 1.5 and 5 tons. Getting the size correct is rather important. A system that is too large will cool the space quickly, then turn off; the resulting quick cycle wears components very quickly and shortens the useful life of the system. A system that is too small will struggle to keep the space cool and run long; the resulting long cycle wears components . . . well, you know the rest. When the time comes for you to replace your AC system, make sure to run a new load calculation; the new investigation should take into consideration changes over the years.

How long do air conditioners last?

Online answers range between 10 and 20 years, but that is a wide range. The readiest answers to this question vary, depending on the source, often either manufacturers or installers of new systems. For opinions without prejudice, connect with consumer organizations and the US EPA. Several factors help determine a system’s usefulness:

• Excessive wear and tear
• Loss of efficiency
• The type of freon or refrigerant gas

A bit of information we will all agree upon is that regular maintenance extends the useful life of air conditioner systems.

Who should complete the AC Repair and Maintenance?

Consumer groups, manufacturers, and HVAC professionals agree that air conditioner systems should be serviced and inspected annually and that air filters should be changed at least every three months. The visit includes cleaning, testing, and measuring. Technicians are trained, have the right tools, with loads of experience; they are uniquely prepared to maintain systems just like yours. Homeowners can learn to clean coils and certainly can change air filters. Inspections and testing should be completed by professionals.

In need of AC repair?

Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help you with your AC repair needs. Contact us and get the help you need.