They say knowledge is power, and that’s definitely 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 common AC issues.

Knowing how your AC works and the common problems it faces will enable you to handle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but realizing when to contact a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into catastrophic repairs.

Your Air conditioning unit is a fundamental component of your home comfort. Because of that, you should always err on the side of caution and call a NATE-certified technician for air conditioning repair in Wilmington if you're uncertain about any aspect of your air conditioning system’s operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Should I Clean My Air Conditioner?

Cleaning your AC is a smart way to make sure it works efficiently, and very well 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 traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes clogged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to pull air through the filter. A clean filter catches the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters are sold at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the right filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, taking care to write 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 thorough service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Brandywine Heating & Air to do regular maintenance on your system. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that need it and look for worn-out parts and potential issues.

2. How Are the Coils on My Air Conditioner Cleaned?

In addition to making sure your indoor air conditioner equipment is functioning efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outside 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 to the outdoors. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back into your home so it can absorb more heat from the air inside your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils will help them release heat more easily.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, shut off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip the power switch off, instead of turning the thermostat off.

2) Remove the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the insides 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 then working your way down. Commercial coil cleaners are sold and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as products foaming solutions that are sprayed on with an attachment to 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 brief period of time to attack the grime and then carefully spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious 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 coils and fins to dry before turning it back on.

3. What Is the Average Lifespan of My Air Conditioner?

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how much it's used. That said, pros say you should start getting ready for 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. Tuneups from Brandywine Heating & Air 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 as long as it can, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Wilmington.

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

Choosing the correct sized air conditioner for your home is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Here are some points to take into account when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

  • Square footage: The amount of space you have to cool is one of the biggest factors. Bigger spaces necessitate more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes preserve cool air better, which could decrease your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you are living in a hotter climate, you'll require a more powerful air conditioner compared to someone living in a cooler climate.
  • Number of windows: Windows frequently let in heat, in particular when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of people: More people in the house create additional body heat, which can influence your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a starting point for deciding what you need.

Due to the fact the size of your cooling system is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will almost certainly want a professional opinion. At Brandywine Heating & Air, we take the time to fully understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other variables such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Brandywine Heating & Air is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Wilmington.

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

While prices vary depending on the type 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 thing is that new air conditioners are designed to be exceedingly efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price of an air conditioner is affected 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 require modifications to the design.

Know these are average costs and prices can fluctuate. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trusted HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re contemplating air conditioning replacement in Wilmington, contact Brandywine Heating & Air. We will schedule an appointment to provide you with a no-cost 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 multiple factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is having 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 properly through your AC system, it can't sufficiently absorb heat. This could be due to a plugged air filter, blocked return air ducts or a failing fan.
  • Low refrigerant levels: If your air conditioner is starting to get low on refrigerant, it may grow too cold and freeze up. This is often because of leaks in the refrigerant lines.
  • Frigid outdoor temperatures: Running an air conditioner when it's really cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to function in temperatures lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and issues with the relay or control board can all result in an AC unit freezing up.

Brandywine Heating & Air is the Trusted Source for Air Conditioning Service in Wilmington.

At Brandywine Heating & Air, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our experienced 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 Wilmington and neighboring cities.

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

Contact Brandywine Heating & Air today at 302-246-7971 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!