What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Air Conditioning and Air Conditioner Repair
Now is the time of year when people depend on their air conditioners the most. As many schools are gearing up to be back in session, this is an excellent opportunity to cover the basics of air conditioning for homeowners. Two systems are most likely to be installed in a modern home: the traditional HVAC, the central air conditioning, and the ductless mini-split air conditioner. This article will discuss the advantages of each system as well as signs that AC repair or maintenance is needed.
The Various Types of Air Conditioning Units and Systems: Ductless Mini-Split Systems Versus Central AC
While traditional HVAC and ductless systems are methods of cooling a whole house, they go about it differently. The differences between these two systems are best explained through a bulleted list.
Benefits of a Central Air Conditioning System:
- The system is often installed in a home, and getting a new unit is much cheaper because the ducts are already in place.
- It is a well-known technology and finding an HVAC professional who can work on a home’s unit should be simple.
- Central AC or traditional HVAC is best at cooling large spaces.
Benefits of a Ductless Mini-Split System
- Mini-splits can be installed in older houses or in areas that don’t have the space for duct installation.
- Because they use heat pump technology, they are very efficient, saving money on utility bills.
- Because they do not have ducts, mini-splits are better for indoor air quality.
- They are very quiet as compared to other types of air conditioning.
- They also allow different parts of the house to have different temperatures due to the separately controlled units.
How to Know When Air Conditioning Repair Is Necessary
No matter what kind of air conditioning system a home has, there are several telltale signs that it needs repair. The list below will explain some indicators of a failing AC unit.
- Hot Air: If warm air is blowing out of the vents, the unit has a problem.
- Noises: Strange noises such as buzzing or beeping from the unit may be the system warning the homeowner of a problem. Other banging or hissing noises can be a sign of malfunction.
- Foul Smells: A burning or plastic-y smell can indicate a serious problem and should be dealt with immediately. Musty smells or rotting smells can indicate a different kind of problem.
The Advantages of Air Conditioner Maintenance
Before any of the above signs are encountered, however, a homeowner should have annual professional air conditioning maintenance. AC maintenance can prevent a loss of air conditioning at a critical time. An HVAC technician can clean the unit and replace worn-out parts before they become problematic.
It is often much less expensive to have regular maintenance than to have a single service visit. A homeowner can do some maintenance themselves, particularly regarding the air filters. Though an annual check is necessary, air filters should be cleaned or changed every 3-6 months.
About AirLux Heating & Cooling
Available 24/7 for emergency service, AirLux Heating & Cooling serves Niles, MI, and the surrounding areas with a 3-year labor warranty on all repairs and installations. Call today for flexible financing on AC repair and maintenance in Niles, MI.
