They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly accurate when talking about your air conditioner. While complicated repairs are best left to experts, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve everyday AC issues.

Knowing how your AC works and the common problems it faces will allow 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 realizing when to reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.

Your Air conditioning unit is an essential part 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 Los Angeles if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I 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 catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow easily through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most leading home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the proper 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 hoping to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at AZ Air Conditioning and Heating to do routine maintenance on your unit. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making sure your indoor air conditioning unit is operating efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your AC is a simple 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 into the cooler air outside. This lowers the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back into your home so it can absorb more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleaning the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more effectively.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

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

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can access the inside of the unit. Then, being careful not to pull hard on any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, first 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 sprayed on with your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most products, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a short period of time to loosen the grime and then softly 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 power back on.

3. How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how often it's used. However, industry experts 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 system is through regularly scheduled conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from AZ Air Conditioning and Heating consists of 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, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Los Angeles.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner you need for your home:

  • Square footage: The amount of space you want to cool is one of the key factors. Larger spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which should decrease your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner 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 occupants: More people in the house produce greater body heat, which may influence your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a jumping off point for identifying what you need.

Because the size of your AC is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will almost certainly want a professional opinion. At AZ Air Conditioning and Heating, we take the time to completely 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 AZ Air Conditioning and Heating is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Los Angeles.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices vary depending on the size 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 thing is that new air conditioners are developed to be exceedingly 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 as well as federal regulations that can impact the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to get numerous quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Los Angeles, contact AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. We will provide you with a no-cost estimate, explain the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

An AC freezing up can be brought on by a number of factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system 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 reasons for AC freezing up:

  • Inadequate 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, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is running low on refrigerant, it could become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently because of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frosty outdoor temperatures: Using an air conditioner when it's really 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: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

AZ Air Conditioning and Heating is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Los Angeles.

At AZ Air Conditioning and Heating, we strive to make your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our qualified 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 Los Angeles and neighboring areas.

If you’re looking to upgrade or its time for a new air conditioner, we’ve got you covered there too, with our top-notch air conditioning installation in Los Angeles. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Phone AZ Air Conditioning and Heating today at 800-296-5088 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!