Find answers to common questions about replacing your air conditioner. We'll help you find the perfect cooling solution.
What are the signs of a refrigerant leak?
Potential signs of a refrigerant leak include:
Warm air coming from the vents:
Ice on the evaporator coil or refrigerant lines:
Hissing or bubbling sounds from the AC unit:
Increased energy bills:
Sweet or oily odor near the AC unit:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your system inspected. Don't wait to fix a refrigerant leak. Prolonging use with a leak can lead to further and more significant issues.
How do I calculate the right BTU for my AC unit?
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures cooling capacity from a space. Correct BTU calculations are crucial for properly sizing an AC unit. The required BTUs depend on several factors, including:
Room size (square footage)
Climate
Insulation levels
Window size and type
Number of occupants
It's recommended to have a professional HVAC technician perform a load calculation to determine the ideal BTU rating for your new AC unit.
What is a heat pump, and how does it work?
A heat pump is an air conditioner that provides heating and cooling. It extracts and moves heat between the inside and outside air. In cooling mode, the heat pump extracts heat from inside your home and releases it outside, just like a traditional air conditioner. In heating mode, it reverses this process, effectively moving heat from outdoors to indoors to heat your space. A heat pump could reduce your utility bills while providing year-round comfort.
How do I know if I need a new AC unit?
Several signs suggest it's time to replace your air conditioner:
Age: If your AC unit is more than a decade old, it's probably less efficient.
Frequent Repairs: Constant repairs can be a sign of bigger problems to come.
High Energy Bills: Rising utility bills can indicate a problem with your cooling system.
Inconsistent Cooling: Uneven temperatures, poor airflow, or insufficient cooling indicate a struggling AC unit.
Strange Noises: Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging suggest mechanical problems.
Refrigerant Leaks: Refrigerant leaks indicate it might be time for an AC replacement.
If you notice these signs, get a professional AC inspection.
What are the signs of a refrigerant leak?
Potential signs of a refrigerant leak include:
Warm air coming from the vents:
Ice on the evaporator coil or refrigerant lines:
Hissing or bubbling sounds from the AC unit:
Increased energy bills:
Sweet or oily odor near the AC unit:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair. Don't wait to fix a refrigerant leak. Continuing to operate a leaking AC unit can also damage the compressor, leading to even more expensive repairs.
How do I calculate the right BTU for my AC unit?
A BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures cooling capacity from a space. Choosing the right BTU rating is important for optimal performance and energy efficiency. The required BTUs depend on several factors, including:
Room size (square footage)
Climate
Insulation levels
Window size and type
Number of occupants
It's recommended to have a professional HVAC technician perform a load calculation to determine the ideal BTU rating for your new AC unit.
What is a heat pump, and how does it work?
A heat pump is an air conditioner that provides heating and cooling. It works by transferring heat between the indoor and outdoor air. In cooling mode, the heat pump extracts heat from inside your home and releases it outside, just like a traditional air conditioner. In the winter, it reverses this process, effectively moving heat from outdoors to indoors to heat your space. Heat pumps are highly efficient for both heating and cooling, making them a good alternative to traditional furnaces and air conditioners, especially in mild to moderate climates.
How do I know if I need a new AC unit?
Several signs suggest it's time to replace your air conditioner:
Age: If your AC unit is more than a decade old, it's likely nearing the end of its lifespan.
Frequent Repairs: Constant repairs can be a sign of bigger problems to come.
High Energy Bills: An inefficient AC unit can drive up your energy costs.
Inconsistent Cooling: Uneven temperatures, or rooms that are hard to cool indicate a problem.
Strange Noises: Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging suggest mechanical problems.
Refrigerant Leaks: Refrigerant leaks require professional repair and are a sign that the unit may be failing.
If you notice these red flags, get a professional AC inspection.