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

Knowing how your AC works and the common problems it faces can empower you to deal with simple problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you dollars on minor service calls, but understanding when to reach out to a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into complex repairs.

Your AC is an essential element 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 Odessa if you're not sure about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning an air conditioning system is a good way to make sure it runs efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most significant thing you can do on your own is to change the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter traps dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those particulates from the air circulating in your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter traps the airborne debris while still permitting air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters are available at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be bought 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 head out for the store, jotting down 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 trying to buy something similar.

For detailed service of your air conditioner, contact the seasoned professionals like the crew at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning to do scheduled maintenance on your AC. They’ll examine your system, clean or lubricate parts that need cleaning and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to ensuring your indoor AC unit is working efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your air conditioner is an easy way to boost its efficiency and can extend the life of your entire system.

The coils, which include extensions called fins, are used to release heat from the refrigerant to the outdoors. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can soak up more heat from the air in your home's interior. Cleansing 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 down 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 access the insides of the unit. Then, taking care not to strain any cords or attachments, safely set the top to the side.

3) Apply a cleaning solution on the fins, beginning at the top and moving 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 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 short period of time to attack the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray very 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 the power 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 well it's maintained and how often it's used. However, experts say you should start looking into air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to make the most of your HVAC is through regular conditioner maintenance. Maintenance service from Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning consists of cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as putting in a new filter and repairing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as possible, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Odessa.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Selecting the correct sized air conditioner for your home is vital for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to consider when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you need to cool is one of the key factors. More expansive spaces require more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which should minimize 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 often let in heat, particularly when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of residents: More people in the house means greater body heat, which may influence your cooling needs.
  • Existing HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a place to start for identifying what you need.

Because the size of your AC is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will almost certainly want a professional opinion. At Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning, we take the time to thoroughly understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s layout and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Odessa.

5. How Much Does an Air Conditioner Cost?

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 extremely efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price tag 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 necessitate changes to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always smart to get at least a few quotes from reliable HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Odessa, get in touch with Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning. We can provide you with a free estimate, explain the process 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 a consequence of multiple factors, all of which boil down to the system'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:

  • Poor airflow: If the air isn't flowing properly through your AC system, it can't sufficiently absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged air filter, obstructed 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 leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Cold outdoor temperatures: Using an air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. Most units aren't designed to perform 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.

Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning is the Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Odessa.

At Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and soothing place. Our skilled 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 premier choice for air conditioning repair in Odessa and the surrounding towns.

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

Contact Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning today at 432-237-0168 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!