They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when it comes to your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to professionals, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve general AC issues.

Understanding how your AC works and the common problems it faces will allow you to tackle 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 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 specialist for air conditioning repair in Bishop if you're uncertain about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

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

1. What Is the Best Way to Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioning system is an effective way to make sure it runs efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most important thing you can do on your own is to swap out 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 in your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, 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 easily through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased 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 leave for the store, 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 trying to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning to do regular maintenance on your AC. 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 certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is working efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your air conditioner is an easy way to increase 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 cooler air outside. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can soak up more heat from the air inside your home. 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, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the interior of the unit. Then, being careful not to stress any cords or attachments, safely put the top to the side.

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and moving down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as in the form of 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 really hard, because that could damage 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. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?

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. However, industry experts say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to make the most of your air conditioner is through AC conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as changing out the dirty filter and repairing 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 Bishop.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?

Choosing the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:

  • Square footage: The size of the space you want to cool is one of the biggest factors. Larger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which should minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler environment.
  • Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of occupants: More people in the house means more body heat, which may affect your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a place to start for identifying what you need.

Because the size of your cooling system is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning is known for superb air conditioning installation in Bishop.

5. What Does My Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices fluctuate depending on the type of the unit and your home’s unique specifications, 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 exceedingly efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price 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 along with federal regulations that require modifications to the design.

Note these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Bishop, get in touch with Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a no-cost estimate, explain the plan and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be a consequence of many 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 most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some frequent reasons for AC freezing up:

  • Inadequate 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, obstructed return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is getting low on refrigerant, it may become too cold and freeze up. This is often because of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Using your air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to perform in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Bishop.

At Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning, we will make your home a comfortable and pleasant 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 their first call for air conditioning repair in Bishop and neighboring areas.

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

Call Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning today at 760-784-9034 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!