They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely true when discussing your air conditioner. While challenging repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve ordinary 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 money on minor service calls, but knowing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex 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 Muskogee if you're not sure 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 Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioner is a good way to make sure it runs efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most important action you can take on your own is to replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter captures dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those particulates from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC expert. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, noting the size of the filter. If you’re not familiar with filters, it’s also a good idea 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 skilled professionals like the crew at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. to do routine maintenance on your unit. They’ll inspect your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit 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 quick 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 into the cooler air outside. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back inside your home so it can take in more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleansing 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 off the the on/off switch, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

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

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

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most products, it's recommended that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a brief period of time to dissolve the grime and then carefully 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 unit to dry before turning it back on.

3. How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

The life span of an air conditioner changes depending on the type of unit, its quality, how often it's maintained and how often it's used. However, pros say you should start thinking about air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your system is through AC conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and mending any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as possible, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Muskogee.

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

Finding the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for keeping comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

  • Square footage: The size of the space you need to cool is one of the biggest factors. More expansive spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which could reduce your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you live in a hotter climate, you'll want a more powerful air conditioner compared to a homeowner 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 create more body heat, which could affect your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and capability of your current system can provide a place to start for determining what you need.

Given that the size of your air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will likely want a professional opinion. At Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc., 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 commitment to customer service is why Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Muskogee.

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

While prices differ depending on the brand of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new AC generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good news 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 as well as federal regulations that can impact the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always a good idea to get at least a few quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re considering air conditioning replacement in Muskogee, reach out to Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc.. We will provide you with a free estimate, explain the procedure 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 a number of factors, all of which boil down to the failure of your system to efficiently transfer heat. If your unit is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is very likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some common causes of 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, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is running low on refrigerant, it may become too cold and freeze up. This is frequently a consequence of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Cold outdoor temperatures: Operating an air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to perform in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Broken thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. is the Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Muskogee.

At Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc., we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our experienced 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 the first choice for air conditioning repair in Muskogee and neighboring areas.

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

Phone Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. today at 918-682-8238 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!