They say knowledge is power, and that’s certainly the truth when it comes to your air conditioner. While complex repairs are best left to specialists, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of your air conditioner and how to solve general AC issues.

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

Your AC is an important part of your home comfort. Because of that, you should always err on the side of caution and call a NATE-certified professional for air conditioning repair in Port Clinton if you're not sure about any aspect of your AC's operation or maintenance.

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

1. How Do I Clean an Air Conditioner?

Cleaning your AC is a good way to make sure it operates efficiently, and potentially could extend the life of your unit.

The most important thing you can do on your own is to change the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those contaminants from the air circulating inside your home. If your AC filter becomes plugged, the air conditioner has to work harder than it ought to in order to move air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still enabling air to flow freely through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be purchased from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the proper filter is to look at your old one before you go shopping, jotting 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 comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the skilled professionals like the crew at Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. to do scheduled maintenance on your AC. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential trouble.

2. How Do I Clean Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is functioning efficiently, it’s necessary to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the outdoor unit of your AC 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 into the outside air. This cools the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can absorb more heat from the air within your home. Cleansing the fins and the coils is a way to help them release heat more efficiently.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, shut off power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to flip off the the on/off switch, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can reach the interior of the unit. Then, being cautious 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 working down. Commercial coil cleaners are on the market and commonly found in both the canned aerosol spray from as well as in the form of foaming solutions that are applied with your garden hose.

4) Follow directions on the product to apply. For most brands, it's suggested that you spray the product on, let the cleaner soak in for a brief period of time to dissolve the grime and then softly spray it off with a garden hose. Take care 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 unit to dry before turning the unit back on.

3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?

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. That said, industry experts say you should start looking into air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get maximum value from your HVAC is through AC conditioner maintenance. Tuneups from Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. features cleaning and inspecting the machinery, as well as replacing the filter and fixing any worn-out or broken parts. To keep your unit operating as long as possible, contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Port Clinton.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?

Picking out the proper size of air conditioner for your home is vital for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some factors to think about when deciding what size air conditioner is right for your home:

  • Square footage: The total area of the space you need to cool is one of the key factors. More expansive spaces demand more cooling power.
  • Home insulation: Well-insulated homes hold cool air better, which can reduce your cooling needs.
  • Climate: If you reside in a hotter climate, you'll need a more powerful air conditioner compared to someone living in a cooler environment.
  • Number of windows: Windows can let in heat, especially when they're south-facing or not well-insulated.
  • Number of people: More people in the house create greater body heat, which could impact your cooling needs.
  • Current HVAC system: The size and performance of your current system can provide a place to start for deciding what you need.

Due to the fact the size of your air conditioner is so critical to your home’s comfort, you will probably want a professional opinion. At Ohler & Holzhauer Inc., we take the time to fully understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other considerations such as your home’s insulation level and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. is known for exceptional air conditioning installation in Port Clinton.

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 requirements, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. The good news is that new air conditioners are designed to be exceptionally efficient, so they do more with less power when compared to older units.

The price of an air conditioner is impacted 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.

Know these are average costs and prices can differ. It's always helpful to get at least a few quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a choice. If you’re interested in air conditioning replacement in Port Clinton, contact Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. We can provide you with a free estimate, describe the procedure and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be due to a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your air conditioner is experiencing issues causing it to freeze up, it is more than 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 adequately absorb heat. This could be due to a clogged 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 can grow too cold and freeze up. This is usually a consequence of leaking in the refrigerant lines.
  • Very Chilly outdoor temperatures: Operating the air conditioner when it's too cold outside can cause the system to freeze. The majority of units aren't designed to perform in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all play a role in an AC unit freezing up.

Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. is your Trustworthy Source for Air Conditioning Service in Port Clinton.

At Ohler & Holzhauer Inc., we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and enjoyable place. Our qualified 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 Port Clinton and the surrounding areas.

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

Contact Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. today at 419-465-8722 to schedule an appointment or free estimate!