They say knowledge is power, and that’s undoubtedly the truth when it comes to your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a rudimentary understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve everyday AC issues.

Learning how your AC works and the common problems it faces will allow you to tackle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you cash on minor service calls, but realizing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex 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 Safford if you're unsure about any aspect of your air conditioner's operation or maintenance.

Here are a few of the frequent 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 an effective way to make sure it operates efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most significant step you can take on your own is to swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter captures dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it should in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most popular home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the correct 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 helpful to note the filtration level of the current filter if you are wanting to buy something similar.

For thorough service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at B&D Air Conditioning to do regular 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 issues.

2. How Should I Clean the 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 outdoor unit of your AC is a simple way to improve 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 cools the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can soak up more heat from the air within your home. 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, instead of turning the thermostat off.

2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the interior of the unit. Then, being cautious not to stress any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Spray a cleaning solution on the fins, starting at the top and working down. Commercial coil cleaners are available and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as in the form of foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to 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 small period of time to attack the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Take care 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 unit to dry before turning the unit back on.

3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, if maintained and how often it's used. However, experts say you should start thinking about 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 B&D Air Conditioning features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating a long time, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Safford.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?

Choosing the proper size of air conditioner for your home is critical for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors 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. Bigger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes retain 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 person living in a cooler climate.
  • 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 create more body heat, which can affect your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and effectiveness of your current system can provide a starting point for identifying what you need.

Given that the size of your air conditioner is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will definitely want a professional opinion. At B&D Air Conditioning, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why B&D Air Conditioning is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Safford.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

While prices differ depending on the type of the unit and your home’s unique requirements, a new AC generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good thing is that new air conditioners are designed 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 can impact the design.

Note these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a decision. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Safford, reach out to B&D Air Conditioning. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a free estimate, explain the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Is My Air Conditioner Freezing Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be a consequence of many factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your unit is experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is most likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some typical reasons for AC freezing up:

  • Inadequate airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a dirty air filter, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is getting low on refrigerant, it may grow too cold and freeze up. This is often a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Operating the air conditioner when it's very cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to operate in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and trouble with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

B&D Air Conditioning is your Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Safford.

At B&D Air Conditioning, we will make your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our qualified 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 Safford and neighboring 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 Safford. No matter what, we can help you solve your cooling issues!

Phone B&D Air Conditioning today at 928-432-6018 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!