Everyone Can Get an Air Conditioning 101 Lesson During Back-to-School Time
Though no homeowner may know everything about the inner workings of their home’s HVAC system, it is beneficial to know the absolute basics of the system. Not only is this good for the homeowner, but it is also helpful to the professional conducting installation, maintenance, or repair on the unit. It makes their job easier if a client can answer their questions about what issues have come up. This article will cover what a homeowner needs to know about their home air conditioning.
What Are The Most Popular Choices for AC Systems?
When it comes to cooling an entire home, there are only two answers: central AC and a ductless air conditioner. Both of these have advantages and disadvantages; much of the decision may depend on the layout of the home and the price point in a particular area. The following will cover the high points for these two variants of home cooling:
- Traditional Central Air Conditioning: This involves having one external air conditioning unit that distributes cool air throughout the house via ducts and vents. This system has been around for a long time and is often integral to new home construction. If repair or replacement is needed and a ducted system is already in place, keeping the central air conditioning system will likely be better and less expensive.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: A mini-split air conditioner is an efficient system that uses one or more central heat pumps that use copper tubing and coolant to remove heat from the home. These can create temperature zones in the home and keep ascertain areas cooler or warmer depending on the inhabitants’ preferences.
Signs of Trouble With the Air Conditioner
While air conditioning systems are built to last, the need for air conditioner repair always shows up to the party eventually. Even a unit that is given regular maintenance may develop an issue unexpectedly. If a homeowner is concerned about their air conditioning system, whether due to the age of the unit or simply to anxiety about August temperatures, one or more of the following signs tend to show up when some sort of repair is needed:
- Not reaching thermostat temp
- Hot air blowing
- Frozen coils
- Strange noises
- AC cycling on and off constantly
- Sky-rocketing energy bills
Air Conditioner Repair and AC Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid an AC repair emergency is through regular AC maintenance by a professional HVAC technician. A pro will tighten connections and clean parts that have become dirty. They can also replace worn-out parts before they start presenting problems, catching issues before they happen. One of the easiest pieces of maintenance is replacing the air filter. One should do this at the beginning of every season, so approximately every three months, and it is a form of maintenance that homeowners can do themselves. Replacing the filter prevents the blower from overworking by keeping the airflow at maximum efficiency.
About Barker Heating & Cooling
Barker Heating & Cooling has been serving the community of Livermore, CA & the Tri-Valley area, since 1998. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured, Barker offers emergency service and same-day appointments when available at no extra charge. Call to discuss their maintenance membership plan.
