Frequently Asked Questions of Air Conditioning Services

Air Conditioning in Colorado Springs, CO

Air conditioners are a seemingly complicated system with many working parts.  The truth is, once you understand the basics surrounding heating and cooling systems, they are pretty straightforward units. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions asked about air conditioning units.

How long should my air conditioner last?

Air conditioners that are properly maintained should last around 15 to 20 years, though often we see air conditioners start to develop problems after seven to ten years if they have not received the proper maintenance needed to support a longer lifespan.  Often, it is recommended to replace your air conditioner, if it is more than ten years old, as more efficient models become available compared to your unit with an outdated SEER rating.

How will I know if my air conditioning filter needs changing?

Some tell-tale signs your air conditioning filter needs changing are:

• The screen is noticeably gray in color and you can see dust and dirt buildup
• You begin to notice that your home has become dustier than usual
• Your cooling system is taking longer to cycle than it typically would
• You notice you or your family’s allergies acting up while in the home
• Your filter has been in use longer than your air conditioner manufacturer’s recommended time frame

How often should I change my air conditioning filters?

Every home is different as some people change their filters every thirty days and others wait as long as ninety days.  How often the filters are changed depends on the home’s environment and the quality of filter being used.  Homes that are in more dusty locations and those that have pets will require more filter changes.  Also, the better-quality filters will need to be changed more often as they are stopping more debris and smaller particles.  If you or someone in your family has asthma or allergies, this usually causes the time frame to change the filter to narrow as well.  When in doubt, change the filter.  They are relatively-inexpensive and could save you from having to make an expensive repair in the future.  Call Absolute Comfort, Inc. to discuss your options on better filters and/or, air purification.

What are the signs that my air conditioner isn’t working correctly?

If you notice anything off about how your unit is running, it’s wise to call an expert to come perform air conditioning repair.  Some signs your air conditioner may require professional attention are:

• Thermostat is blank
• Unusual noises indoors or outdoors
• The time to cool down the home has lengthened
• Rising energy bills
• Dirty air filters
• Poor air flow
• Debris build up outdoors and indoors

What size HVAC system should I get?

This depends on your home’s load requirements.  A system that is too big for your home will cool your home too quickly, which makes it inefficient and will shorten the lifespan of your system.  A system that is too small may not cool the home under average conditions.  Your best bet is to call Absolute Comfort, Inc. to your home we can determine the size of the HVAC system that will best suit your individual needs.

Should I have a professional service my unit?

Though there are many acts of maintenance you can perform on your own, like filter changes and necessary cleaning, it is best to get a professional to deal with your air conditioning maintenance.  If you are not a trained technician, having a professional take a look at your needed air conditioning repairs or service requirements will ensure the job is done right the first time and can help you catch problems while they’re still small and manageable.

Will a new air conditioner save me money?

The simple answer is yes. An air conditioner that is just ten years old could be as much as 60% less efficient than a newer unit. Today’s models are much more efficient, which will keep your energy costs low.