They say knowledge is power, and that’s undoubtedly true when talking about your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to professionals, it’s helpful to have a practical understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve ordinary AC issues.

Learning how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces can empower you to handle simple 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 complex repairs.

Your Air conditioner is a fundamental component 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 Bartlesville if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.

Here are some 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 a smart way to make sure it runs efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most effective thing you can do 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 in your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow easily through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the right filter is to look at your old one before you head out for the store, jotting 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 Farris Heating & Air to do scheduled maintenance on your AC. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.

2. How Should I Clean the Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is working efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system is a quick 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 to the outdoors. This lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can soak up more heat from the air within your home. Cleaning 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, instead of turning the thermostat off.

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

3) Put a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and then working your way 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 cleaners, it's advised that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to dissolve the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray too hard, because that could harm the coils or fins!

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

3. What Is the Average Lifespan of My Air Conditioner?

The life span of an air conditioner can vary based 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 get maximum value from your air conditioner is through AC conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Farris Heating & Air 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 possible, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Bartlesville.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Picking out the right size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to think about when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you have to cool is one of the most important factors. Larger spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which can reduce your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you reside in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a person living in a cooler place.
  • Number of windows: Windows frequently let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of people: More people in the house means additional body heat, which can affect your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and productivity of your current system can provide a place to start for determining what you need.

Because the size of your AC is so important to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Farris Heating & Air, we take the time to fully 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 commitment to customer service is why Farris Heating & Air is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Bartlesville.

5. What Does My Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices fluctuate depending on the kind of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing is that new air conditioners are developed to be exceptionally efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price 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 require modifications to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get several quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Bartlesville, reach out to Farris Heating & Air. We can provide you with a no-cost estimate, make sure you understand the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

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

Here are some typical causes of AC freezing up:

  • Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't sufficiently 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 become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frosty outdoor temperatures: Operating your air conditioner when it's really 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: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

Farris Heating & Air is your Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Bartlesville.

At Farris Heating & Air, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our skilled 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 premier choice for air conditioning repair in Bartlesville and nearby cities.

If you’re wanting 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 Bartlesville. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Contact Farris Heating & Air today at 918-333-0376 to schedule an appointment or no-cost estimate!