Frequently Asked Questions
A: If your air conditioner is running, but not lowering temperatures inside, one issue could be a blocked or clogged condenser coil. When operating correctly, the condenser fan draws air into the outdoor unit through the condenser coil to pull heat energy out of your home.
Q: Is it worth to repair air conditioning?
A: EnergyStar recommends replacing your AC unit every 10 to 15 years. If you have an eight-year-old or older air conditioning system, it may not be worth the cost to repair it unless the repair is an easy fix, like a worn fan belt or a clogged condenser unit.
Q: Can a dirty air filter cause AC not to cool?
A: Many people wonder, “Can a dirty air filter cause my AC not to cool?” The simple answer is yes – a dirty filter can create several problems that can hinder your unit’s effectiveness.
Q: What is the lifespan of an air conditioner?
A: While every unit is different, and every homeowner has a different understanding of when their central air conditioner is broken beyond repair, it’s fair to say that, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect a good 15 to 20 years of cooling from a new high efficiency air conditioning system.
Q: How do I know if my AC filter is dirty?
A: One clever way to determine if the air filter is dirty is to do the “white sheet test.” This involves hanging a clean white sheet approximately 5 inches away from one of the vents for at least one hour. If the sheet turns gray, you’ve got a filthy air filter. The grayer the sheet, the dirtier the filter.
Q: Why does my AC filter get dirty so quickly?
A: If you notice that your air filters get dirty very quickly, it might be due to the quality of the air filter you’re buying. Cheaper air filters cost less because they are low quality. As a result, they have a shorter lifespan than high-performance air filters. Take for example a standard fiberglass air filter.
Q: Why is my house so dusty?
A: Both low humidity and high humidity play a role in why your house is so dusty. When the air is dry, your air can be extra dusty. But when it’s too high, it can feed mites and promote mold growth. If your air is dry, run a humidifier so that you can reach a comfortable level.
Q: Can I run my AC without a filter for one night?
A: The short answer: You can get away with running your AC without a filter for a short amount of time without hurting your system. That being said, running your AC without a filter for longer than 6-8 hours can cause serious damage to your AC system and significantly lower the quality of the air in your home.
Q: What are the common problems of AC?
A: Other common problems with existing air conditioners result from faulty installation, poor service procedures, and inadequate maintenance. Improper installation of a central air conditioner can result in leaky ducts and low airflow.
Q: How often should you change air conditioner?
A: Air conditioning units can last a surprisingly long time, but they can also break unexpectedly. You can expect to replace an AC unit every 10-15 years unless you experience problems with the unit. Be sure to keep up with maintenance and proper storage of the unit once the weather becomes cold.