They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when discussing your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to professionals, 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 typical problems it faces will enable 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 knowing when to reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.

Your Air conditioner 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 Mason City if you're unsure about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

Here are several 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 step you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps 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 force air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the right 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 smart 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 Mechanical Air Systems Co to do scheduled maintenance on your system. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Are the Coils on My Air Conditioner Cleaned?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your air conditioner is a simple 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 outside air. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back into your home so it can absorb more heat from the air within your home. Washing the fins and the coils will 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 disconnect it completely from power, rather than turning the thermostat off.

2) Lift off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the interior of the unit. Then, taking care not to pull hard on any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as brands foaming solutions that are applied with your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most cleaners, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a brief period of time to loosen the grime and then gently 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 Do Air Conditioners Last?

The life span of an air conditioner can vary based on the type of unit, its quality, if maintained and how frequently it's used. That said, pros say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your HVAC is through regular conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Mechanical Air Systems Co includes cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and fixing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as possible, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Mason City.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

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

  • Square footage: The amount of space you want to cool is one of the most important factors. Larger spaces demand 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 require a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner 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 occupants: More people in the house means more body heat, which can influence your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a place to start for deciding what you need.

Given that the size of your cooling system is so important to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Mechanical Air Systems Co, 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 Mechanical Air Systems Co is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Mason City.

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 AC 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 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 in addition to 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 Mason City, contact Mechanical Air Systems Co. We will provide you with a no-cost 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 due to a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your unit is having 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 easily through your AC system, it can't adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a dirty air filter, something stopping air from flowing through the return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is getting low on refrigerant, it can get too cold and freeze up. This is usually the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Operating the air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to work in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Mechanical Air Systems Co is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Mason City.

At Mechanical Air Systems Co, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our qualified professionals are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and are knowledgeable on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us the first choice for air conditioning repair in Mason City and nearby towns.

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

Call Mechanical Air Systems Co today at 641-243-4654 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!