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

Understanding how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to handle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but realizing when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into catastrophic repairs.

Your AC is an important component 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 Tucson and Phoenix if you're not sure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

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

The most significant thing you can do on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating throughout your home. If your AC filter becomes clogged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you go shopping, 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 wanting to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Desert Husky HVAC/R Services to do routine maintenance on your system. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to ensuring your indoor AC unit is functioning efficiently, it’s also a good idea to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner is an easy way to boost 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 to the outdoors. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can take in more heat from the air inside your home. Washing the fins and the coils can 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, instead of turning the thermostat off.

2) Lift off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the insides of the unit. Then, being cautious not to strain any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.

3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, first at the top and then working your way 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 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 dissolve the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Be careful not to spray too hard, because that could ruin the coils or fins!

5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the components to dry before turning the power 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, how often it's maintained and how often it's used. However, experts say you should start thinking about air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your air conditioner is through AC conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from Desert Husky HVAC/R Services consists of 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 possible, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Tucson and Phoenix.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?

Picking out the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to consider when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you want to cool is one of the biggest factors. More expansive spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which can minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person 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 people: More people in the house means greater body heat, which could affect your cooling needs.
  • Present HVAC system: The size and productivity of your current system can provide a starting point for determining what you need.

Because the size of your AC is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Desert Husky HVAC/R Services, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Desert Husky HVAC/R Services is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Tucson and Phoenix.

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

While prices differ depending on the kind 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. On the plus side, a benefit of air conditioning replacement is that new air conditioners are developed to be exceedingly efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The cost of an air conditioner is impacted 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.

Know these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Tucson and Phoenix, get in touch with Desert Husky HVAC/R Services. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, make sure you understand the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be a consequence of a number of factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is very likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical triggers for AC freezing up:

  • Inadequate airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't properly 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 could get too cold and freeze up. This is frequently the result of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frosty outdoor temperatures: Using your air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to operate in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Desert Husky HVAC/R Services is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Tucson and Phoenix.

At Desert Husky HVAC/R Services, we strive to make your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our knowledgeable 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 Tucson and Phoenix and the surrounding towns.

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

Phone Desert Husky HVAC/R Services today at 520-416-5415 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!