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

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

Your Air conditioning unit is an important part 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 Milledgeville and Middle Georgia 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 Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

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

The most significant action you can take 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 in your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the correct 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 a good idea to note the filtration level of the current filter if you are hoping to buy something similar.

For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Air Concepts of Middle Georgia to do routine maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to ensuring your indoor AC unit is working 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 boost its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.

The coils, which include extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant into the cooler air outside. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can take in more heat from the air in your home's interior. Washing the fins and the coils can help them release heat more easily.

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) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the inside of the unit. Then, being cautious not to pull hard on any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.

3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning 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 applied with your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most brands, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to attack the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray very hard, because that could ruin the coils or fins!

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

3. How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The life span of an air conditioner changes depending on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how frequently it's used. Having said that, pros 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 HVAC is through AC conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Air Concepts of Middle Georgia includes cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as putting in a new filter and fixing 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 Milledgeville and Middle Georgia.

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

Picking out the right size of air conditioner for your home is vital for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some points 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 most important factors. More expansive spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which could minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner living in a cooler environment.
  • 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.
  • Present HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a place to start for determining what you need.

Given that the size of your cooling system is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will almost certainly want a professional opinion. At Air Concepts of Middle Georgia, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Air Concepts of Middle Georgia is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia.

5. What Does My Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices differ depending on the brand of the unit and your home’s unique specifications, a new air conditioning system generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good news is that new air conditioners are designed to be exceptionally 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 as well as federal regulations that require modifications to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always smart to get several quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, contact Air Concepts of Middle Georgia. We will provide you with a no-cost estimate, describe the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

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

Here are some frequent reasons for AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't sufficiently 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 get too cold and freeze up. This is often a consequence of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frosty outdoor temperatures: Operating an 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 below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

Air Concepts of Middle Georgia is the Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia.

At Air Concepts of Middle Georgia, we will make your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our knowledgeable technicians are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and are experienced on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us their first call for air conditioning repair in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia and neighboring areas.

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

Contact Air Concepts of Middle Georgia today at 478-200-5689 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!