They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly the truth when talking about your air conditioner. While challenging 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 deal with easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money 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 Moline if you're uncertain about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

Here are some typical questions people ask our experts about their air conditioners:

1. What Is the Best Way to Clean an 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 important thing you can do on your own is to change the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to 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 leading 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, 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 thorough service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Freed Heating & Air Conditioning to do routine maintenance on your system. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.

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

In addition to ensuring your indoor air conditioner equipment is working efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outside unit of your AC is a quick 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 into your home so it can take in more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils will help them release heat more effectively.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, shut down power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip off the the on/off switch, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

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

3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to 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 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 unit to dry before turning the unit back on.

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

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, if maintained and how frequently it's used. That said, pros say you should start thinking about 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. Maintenance service from Freed Heating & Air Conditioning features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and repairing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as it can, reach out to us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Moline.

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

Choosing the right size of air conditioner for your home is crucial for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to think about when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you want to cool is one of the most important factors. Bigger spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, which should minimize your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living 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 can let in heat, in particular when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of residents: More people in the house produce additional body heat, which may impact your cooling needs.
  • Present 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 air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At Freed Heating & Air Conditioning, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s insulation level and size. This attention to detail and commitment to customer service is why Freed Heating & Air Conditioning is known for superb air conditioning installation in Moline.

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

While prices fluctuate depending on the size 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. The good news 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 tag 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 along with federal regulations that require modifications to the design.

Note these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Moline, reach out to Freed Heating & Air Conditioning. We can provide you with a no-cost estimate, explain the plan 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 many factors, all of which boil down to the system's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is suffering from issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some common causes of AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing easily through your AC system, it can't adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged 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 may grow too cold and freeze up. This is usually the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Operating the air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Many units aren't designed to work in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

Freed Heating & Air Conditioning is your Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Moline.

At Freed Heating & Air Conditioning, we strive to make your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our qualified professionals 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 Moline and nearby towns.

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

Call Freed Heating & Air Conditioning today at 309-865-5115 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!