Air Conditioners

How do home air conditioners work?

Home air conditioners work by using a refrigerant, such as Freon, to absorb heat from the air inside a home and transfer it outside. The system includes an evaporator coil, which absorbs the heat, a compressor, which compresses the refrigerant and pumps it to the outside condenser coil, and a condenser coil, which releases the heat outside. The cooled air is then circulated back into the home using a fan. The process is called “air conditioning” because it “conditions” the air in the home by cooling it and removing humidity.

What type of home air conditioners are there?

  • Central air conditioners: These are the most common type of air conditioner and are typically installed as part of a home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. They cool the entire home by circulating cooled air through a system of ducts.
  • Split-system air conditioners: These consist of two parts: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit that are connected by refrigerant lines. The indoor unit cools the air and the outdoor unit expels the heat. They can be used to cool one or several rooms.
  • Window air conditioners: These are smaller units that are designed to fit in a window or a hole cut in a wall. They are typically used to cool a single room or a small area.
  • Portable air conditioners: These are air conditioners that can be moved from room to room. They have a hose that vents the hot air outside and can be used to cool a single room or small area.
  • Ductless mini-split air conditioners:  A ductless mini split air conditioner consists of an indoor and outdoor unit, providing efficient, zoned cooling without the need for ductwork. It’s ideal for retrofitting homes or cooling specific areas.
  • Hybrid air conditioner: They are combination of air source heat pump and air conditioner, they can work both as heating and cooling device. Read more about Ductless Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps here.

Each type of air conditioner has its own set of pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s best to consult with Sharpe Advantage, a professional HVAC contractor, to determine which type of air conditioner is best for your home.

How can I tell if my air conditioner is not working efficiently?

  • High energy bills: If your energy bills are suddenly higher than usual, it could be a sign that your AC unit is not running as efficiently as it should.
  • Poor air flow: If the air flow from your vents is weak or uneven, it could be a sign that your AC unit is not working properly.
  • Strange noises: If your AC unit is making strange noises, such as banging, clanking, or squealing, it could be a sign of a mechanical problem that needs to be addressed.
  • Leaks: If there is water leaking from your AC unit, it could be a sign of a problem with the condensation drain or another issue that needs to be addressed.
  • Inadequate cooling: If your AC unit is not keeping your home cool enough, it could be a sign that it is not working efficiently or that it needs to be serviced.

It is best to schedule a maintenance check-up with a professional, like Sharpe Advantage to know the specific cause of the problem and address it accordingly.

How often should my home air conditioner be serviced?

It is generally recommended to have a home air conditioner serviced at least once a year, ideally before the start of the cooling season. This allows for any necessary repairs or maintenance to be performed before the AC unit is put under heavy strain during the summer. Additionally, regular service can help to extend the lifespan of the unit and improve its overall efficiency.

It is also a good idea to have a professional, like Sharpe Advantage check the unit after a long period of disuse such as during winter.

How can I tell if my air conditioner needs to be replaced?

Here are some signs that your air conditioner may need to be replaced:

  • Age: The average lifespan of an air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this age, it may be time to consider replacing it.
  • Frequent repairs: If you find yourself needing to repair your air conditioner frequently, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continue to pay for multiple repairs.
  • Inefficiency: If your air conditioner is not cooling your home effectively or your energy bills have risen significantly, it may be time to consider a more energy-efficient model.
  • Noise: If your air conditioner is making strange noises or is becoming increasingly loud, it may be a sign that it is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
  • R22 refrigerant phase out: If your unit still uses R22 refrigerant, it may be an indication that it’s an older model and will require costly refrigerant to keep running. It may be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer, R410A-compatible model.
It’s time to call Sharpe Advantage

It is best to consult with Sharpe Advantage, a professional HVAC contractor, to evaluate the condition of your air conditioner and provide recommendations on whether it should be repaired or replaced.

Contact Sharpe Advantage to discuss your air conditioning needs