The Basics of Air Conditioning
Air conditioning units are an important part of households, especially during the summer months when temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s throughout the country.
That said, homeowners should understand the basics regarding air conditioning units, including the different types and the signs of an air conditioning unit that starts to go bad.
Kinds of Air Conditioning Units
There are two main types of air conditioning units on the market: central air systems and ductless mini-split air conditioner systems. Both have their benefits, and the chosen type will depend on the specific house involved and the homeowner's preferences.
Central air systems are the most common type of air conditioning units, apart from window and portable AC units, which both have advantages and disadvantages. In terms of central air conditioning units, though, these units usually go hand in hand with furnaces. They come with an outdoor unit that works with ductwork to distribute cold air throughout the home, keeping the entire house at a consistently cool temperature, depending on the thermostat's setting.
On the other hand, ductless air conditioner systems, as their name suggests, are systems that do not require or rely on any ductwork. These units include two units: one indoor and one out. These units are connected through refrigerant tubing and electrical wiring. The inside unit is often wall-mounted and delivers cool or hot air into a living area. However, these units do not cover as wide of an area as central air units do, so homeowners may need to have several indoor units installed throughout their home.
Repair Signs of an Air Conditioner
There are a few signs that an air conditioner has started to go bad and should receive maintenance in the form of an air conditioner repair or an air conditioner replacement.
These signs include:
- The air conditioner blowing out warm air instead of cold
- The thermostat is no longer working
- Little to no air is produced from vents
- Strange and loud noises coming from the AC
- Strange odors coming from the AC
- Humidity is no longer being removed
- Frequent problems with the AC unit
- Higher than normal energy bills
Maintaining an Air Conditioner
Routine maintenance should be conducted by a professional quarterly or twice a year. The professional can check the AC unit and diagnose problems before they worsen. They can also do required tune-ups and thorough cleanings.
However, homeowners can maintain their AC unit in between the routine maintenance visits done by a professional. To maintain their own AC unit, it is recommended that homeowners change their air filter once every 3 months or more.
Replacing the air filter is easy enough and can be done within seconds. However, it's still recommended that a professional be brought in to check over the AC unit at least once a year, though twice a year is even better.
Bringing in a professional can save homeowners money in the long run by catching problems early on before they have a chance to become significantly worse and more costly.
About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning
Since 1962, Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning have been committed to providing efficient services to their customers, both new and old. With professional technicians who listen to their customers, the professionals at Atlantic know exactly what they're doing and have their customer's best interests at heart. Call now for AC service!
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