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

Learning how your AC works and the frequent problems it faces will allow you to tackle easy problems without needing to call an HVAC specialist every time. This not only saves you money on minor service calls, but realizing when to call a professional can help prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.

Your Air conditioning unit is an important element 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 Hudsonville if you're uncertain 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 your AC is an effective way to make sure it works efficiently, and very well could extend the life of your unit.

The most effective action you can take on your own is to swap out the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter catches dust, pollen, pet hair and other debris, and removes those impurities from the air circulating throughout your home. If your AC filter becomes choked with debris, the air conditioner has to work harder than it really should in order to force air through the filter. A clean filter removes the airborne debris while still allowing air to flow efficiently through the system.

Replacement filters can be purchased at most major home improvement stores, hardware stores or can be ordered from your local HVAC specialist. A good way to make sure you get the correct filter is to look at your old one before you leave for the store, 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 trying to buy something similar.

For comprehensive service of your air conditioner, contact the experienced professionals like the crew at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services to do routine maintenance on your unit. They’ll look over your system, clean or lubricate parts that require attention and look for worn-out parts and potential problems.

2. How Should I Clean the Air Conditioner Coils?

In addition to making certain that your indoor air conditioning unit is functioning efficiently, it’s important to tend to your outdoor unit. Cleaning the coils on the exterior unit of your cooling system is an easy way to improve 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 into the cooler air outside. This brings down the temperature of the refrigerant, which then goes back in your home so it can absorb 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 easily.

To clean your air conditioner’s fins and coil:

1) First, shut down power to the outdoor unit. It’s best to disconnect it completely from power, as opposed to turning the thermostat off.

2) Take off the top of the outdoor AC so you can enter the interior of the unit. Then, being careful not to stress any cords or attachments, safely move the top to the side.

3) Put 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 in the form of foaming solutions that are sprayed on with 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 small period of time to loosen the grime and then gently spray it off with a garden hose. Be cautious not to spray very hard, because that could harm the coils or fins!

5) Secure the top back on the unit and then wait for the components to dry before turning the power back on.

3. How Long Can Air Conditioners Work?

The life span of an air conditioner depends on the type of unit, its quality, how well it's maintained and how frequently it's used. However, industry experts say you should start getting ready for air conditioner replacement after about 12-15 years.

One of the best ways to get the most mileage out of your HVAC is through AC conditioner maintenance. Routine checkups from West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services 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 possible, call us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Hudsonville.

4. What Size Air Conditioner Should I Have?

Finding the correct sized air conditioner for your home is crucial for achieving comfort and efficiency. Here are some elements to think about when deciding what size air conditioner to buy for your home:

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

Because the size of your air conditioner is so essential to your home’s comfort, you will probably want a professional opinion. At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, we take the time to completely understand your family’s lifestyle, comfort needs and the many other factors such as your home’s design and size. This attention to detail and focus on customer service is why West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is known for excellent air conditioning installation in Hudsonville.

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

While prices fluctuate depending on the size of the unit and your home’s unique needs, a new air conditioner generally costs between $5,000 and $12,500 to purchase and install. On the plus side, a benefit of air conditioning replacement is that new air conditioners are developed 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 along with federal regulations that require modifications to the design.

Realize these are average costs and prices can vary. It's always a good idea to get numerous quotes from trustworthy HVAC companies before making a purchase. If you’re thinking about air conditioning replacement in Hudsonville, get in touch with West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services. We will provide you with a complimentary estimate, describe the process and help connect you with available rebates or discounts.

6. What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

Air conditioning freezing up can be brought on by a variety of factors, all of which boil down to the AC's inability to efficiently transfer heat. If your AC is having issues causing it to freeze up, it is very likely time for air conditioning repair.

Here are some common triggers for AC freezing up:

  • Insufficient airflow: If the air isn't flowing correctly through your AC system, it can't properly absorb heat. This could be due to a plugged 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 usually the result of leakages in the refrigerant lines.
  • Cold 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 below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
  • Mechanical failures: Faulty thermostats, damaged blower motors and problems with the relay or control board can all contribute to an AC unit freezing up.

West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is your Respected Source for Air Conditioning Service in Hudsonville.

At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, we are focusing on making your home a comfortable and pleasant place. Our qualified specialists are up-to-date on the latest industry training and trends, and are knowledgeable on a wide variety of systems. That’s why community members make us the first choice for air conditioning repair in Hudsonville and neighboring areas.

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

Contact West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services today at (616) 319-1436 to schedule an appointment or complimentary estimate!