Living in Shawnee, KS means dealing with high humidity and extreme temperatures, especially during summer. A functioning AC system is essential for keeping your home comfortable and safe. Without it, you risk heatstroke, dehydration, and other health hazards. Therefore, whenever it is malfunctioning, it’s important to act fast to get a reliable HVAC contractor on the job. Here’s what you need to know to ensure seamless and efficient AC repair.
Understanding the AC Repair Needs: Typical Issues AC Systems Face in Shawnee
Refrigerant Leaks
Most of the time, refrigerant leaks occur in the copper tubing of your evaporator coil. The tubing transfers the refrigerant that cools your home and can deteriorate over time due to water exposure, mechanical vibrations, physical impacts, or aging.
Refrigerant leaks can significantly reduce the efficiency of your AC system and, in extreme cases, cause a complete breakdown. Exposure to the refrigerant itself is also harmful to human health. Therefore, if you suspect a leak, it’s crucial to get it fixed immediately.
Electrical Problems
Your AC unit has many electrical components that work together to keep everything running smoothly. However, due to constant and heavy usage during the summer months, these components can wear out or become faulty. This can lead to issues such as blown fuses, tripped breakers, or malfunctioning thermostats.
Frozen Coils
The high humidity levels in Shawnee during the summer can cause your AC’s evaporator coils to freeze over. This occurs when warm air from your home comes into contact with the cold coils, causing condensation to form and freeze. Frozen coils can cause compressor failure, reduce efficiency, and result in warm air blowing from your vents.
Clogged Air Filters
Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can build up in your filters, reducing the airflow and causing your AC system to work harder. This can put a strain on your system and lead to overheating or breakdowns.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is often referred to as “the heart” of an AC system, as it pumps refrigerant throughout the unit. If the compressor fails, your entire AC system will stop working. Common causes of compressor failure include dirt buildup, electrical issues, and wear and tear over time.
High Utility Bill
If you’ve noticed that your utility bill has increased significantly during the summer months, it could be a sign that your AC system is not running efficiently. This can result from any of the aforementioned issues, such as dirty filters or a malfunctioning compressor. Whenever there’s a problem with your AC, it has to work harder and use more energy to keep your home cool.
What to Do
If you encounter any of the aforementioned issues or suspect your AC system is malfunctioning, your first step should be to turn it off. Continuing to run a faulty AC system can cause further damage and increase your energy bill. Next, you should contact an HVAC professional for proper diagnosis and repair.
Key Considerations When Choosing an AC Repair Company
Local Reviews and Reputation
When selecting an AC repair company in Shawnee, KS, it’s crucial to consider contractors within your local area. This allows for easier communication and faster response times, reducing the inconvenience of a broken AC system.
Start by reading local reviews online. Websites like Yelp and Google Reviews provide valuable insights into the customer experience and can help you determine which companies have a good reputation in your area. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have recently had their AC system serviced.
Certifications and Experience
Look for certifications such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence) and ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America). These certifications indicate that the company employs knowledgeable and skilled technicians trained to handle various AC issues.
Then, consider the company’s experience in the industry. AC repair companies with years of experience have likely encountered and resolved the same issue your specific AC is currently facing. This means they are well-equipped to handle your repair needs efficiently and effectively.
Price and Estimates
You want a good contractor that provides quality service at a reasonable price. It’s essential to obtain several estimates from different companies and compare pricing, taking note of any significant discrepancies. Beware of companies that offer exceptionally low prices, as they may be cutting corners or using subpar materials.
Also, ask about the company’s warranty and guarantees for their work. A reputable AC repair company should offer a warranty on their services and guarantee customer satisfaction.
Availability and Response Time
A malfunctioning AC in the middle of a hot summer day is an emergency. Ensure the contractor you are considering offers emergency services and has a quick response time.
Insurance Coverage
A lot of things can go wrong during an AC repair; it’s part of the job. That’s why it’s crucial to choose an AC repair company that carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. These two types of insurance will protect you from financial and legal liabilities in case of any accidents or damages that occur during the repair process.
Customer Service
Excellent customer service is a hallmark of a reputable AC repair company. Seek out contractors who are responsive, professional, and eager to address your questions and concerns. This will help you establish a positive working relationship with the company and ensure that your AC repair needs are met efficiently and satisfactorily.
Ensuring a Smooth Repair Process
Once you have found the right AC repair company, it’s essential to take a few steps to ensure a smooth and successful repair process. First, make sure the technician has access to your AC unit and its surroundings. Clear any clutter or obstacles that may hinder their work. If you have a toddler or a pet, keep them away from the work area for their safety and to prevent any disruptions.
Second, communicate clearly and concisely about the issues you are experiencing with your AC unit. Be specific about any unusual noises, smells, or performance issues that you have noticed. This will help the technician accurately diagnose and address the problem. If you are unsure about any details, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
Third, follow all instructions provided by the technician, such as turning off the electricity or making any necessary preparations before the repair work begins. This will help the technician work safely and efficiently, resulting in a successful repair.
After the repair, be present when the technician tests your AC unit. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification before the technician leaves.
Ongoing Maintenance and Care
In order to avoid future AC breakdowns and prolong the life of your unit, it’s essential to prioritize ongoing maintenance and care. Regularly scheduled tune-ups can help identify potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs down the line.
The general rule of thumb is to have your AC unit serviced once a year. However, if your system is old or experiences a lot of use, it may be beneficial to schedule tune-ups more frequently.
There are simple tasks such as changing air filters once every two to three months, keeping the outdoor unit clean and free of debris, and ensuring proper ventilation around the unit. In addition to professional maintenance, these can also contribute to the overall health of your AC unit. Also, keep a close eye on your utility bills for any significant changes, be attentive to unusual noises or smells coming from your AC unit, and promptly address any potential issues.
Contact Air Care Heating & Cooling for Professional Repairs
Call Air Care Heating & Cooling if you live in Shawnee, KS for timely and professional AC repairs. We offer 24/7 emergency services and have 40+ years of combined experience in the HVAC industry and a track record of more than 20,000 satisfied clients. Also, if you have other issues, such as poor indoor air quality, water heater malfunction, or geothermal system problems, we can help. Our certified technicians have the skills for every home comfort need.
