Air Conditioning 101 for Homeowners
Summer has sped by, and soon, schools will be back in session. While the little ones need constant knowledge to keep their brains working, their parents often forget they need intellectual stimulation, too. When it comes to a parent’s concerns, the health and operation of the home are usually near the top of the list. As school goes back in session this year, take some time to learn about air conditioning.
Keeping the home comfortable and safe is essential. Many homeowners find their air conditioners a complete mystery, making them feel helpless when problems arise. Instead of feeling helpless, read this quick guide and apply the knowledge to help the home’s air conditioning system. Here is a quick guide to air conditioners, including common types, signs repair is needed, and AC maintenance.
Common Air Conditioner Styles
When it comes to the air conditioner in a home, it will most likely be one of two types of air conditioners. These two types are the most common choices nationwide in new construction, so if the home was built in the last 50 years, it would likely have one of these AC styles. The first and most common type of air conditioner is the central air conditioning system. Central air conditioners use ductwork to move air around a home from a central location where the cooling is done. These systems are custom-designed for every house with ductwork, keeping the entire home at a constant temperature and humidity.
Ductless mini split air conditioners are the other common style of cooling system in homes. Mini-splits are also called ductless air conditioners because they do away with the need for bulky ductwork. Ductless air conditioners are perfect for retrofits because they can be installed in older homes without the room to install air ducts. They also allow for greater temperature control through zoning since multiple indoor units spread out throughout a house supply air to the home, which can also lower energy bills.
Signs That It’s Time for AC Repairs
Regardless of the style of the air conditioner, there will come a time when problems arise. Knowing the signs of a failing air conditioner can mean the difference between staying cool and losing air conditioning during the summer. It’s time to call for AC repair when these signs are present:
- Long cooling cycles
- Higher energy bills
- Poor air quality, including high humidity
- Noisy operation
- Uneven cooling or lack of airflow
AC Maintenance
Air conditioners are complex machines that need attention occasionally to keep them operating at their best. Routine maintenance has many benefits, such as extending an AC’s lifespan, preventing issues, improving indoor air quality, improving efficiency, and lowering energy bills.
Manufacturers recommend that professional AC maintenance be performed once per year. Likewise, heating maintenance should also be performed once per year, so it is best to schedule professional HVAC maintenance twice a year, once in the spring for the AC and once in the fall for the heater.
AC maintenance allows professionals to perform tasks like:
- Lubricating moving parts
- Cleaning the AC coils
- Checking electrical connections
- Looking for refrigerant leaks
- Verifying delivery temperatures
- Replace the AC filter
As a quick note, homeowners should also do their part to keep the AC running well and efficiently. Replacing dirty air filters, typically at least every three months, is necessary to keep the system energy efficient and remove dust and other allergens from the indoor air.
About LenAire
LenAire is a locally owned and operated HVAC company that has been serving Bossier City and the surrounding areas since 1987. They offer free second opinions, hassle-free scheduling, and financing. Call them today for air conditioning services in Bossier City, LA.
