Air conditioning repairs in Northern California can be expensive, but you can avoid a costly AC repair by being proactive with at-home and professional maintenance. Like any machine, an air conditioner has parts that wear out. However, equipment malfunctions and breakdowns are not inevitable. You can avoid calling for AC repair near you, and potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars (leaving more money in your budget), by following these tips:

• Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance
• Change the Air Filter as Recommended
• Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner
• Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
• Look For Dirt Inside the Unit
• Check the Thermostat Regularly
• Keep the Vents Open
• Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

1. Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance

Your air conditioner should be tuned up at least once a year. Annual maintenance is the most effective way to avoid costly AC repairs. The system should be inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, repaired before the cooling season starts. During maintenance, a technician should:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels
• Lubricate moving parts
• Tighten electrical connections
• Address any electrical issues
• Look for and seal any duct leaks
• Check the thermostat and system controls
• Clear the condensate drain (if necessary)

2. Change the Air Filter as Recommended

A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce or block airflow. The air conditioner’s manufacturer will recommend the best interval for changing the filter. In general, an AC filter should be changed every one to three months, depending on the system and your home’s indoor air quality. Neglecting to replace the filter can reduce cooling performance, force the system to work harder, and lead to higher energy bills. Low airflow can also cause strain that damages the unit, requiring costly repairs.

3. Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner

The more you use your AC, the more wear and tear it will experience. Using an air conditioner less may not seem like an option during a hot summer. However, raising the thermostat by a few degrees not only saves energy but can also reduce the unit's demand. 

How can you do this without sacrificing comfort? Running a ceiling fan can make the temperature feel 3℉ or 4℉ cooler, offsetting a slight increase in the thermostat setting. Also, turn the AC off when you go to work, leave for a vacation, or are otherwise away from home.

4. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Debris can restrict airflow and potentially contaminate the system, especially if it builds up around the outdoor unit. Regularly check for leaves, branches, grass, dirt, and other items around the condenser unit. Also, trim foliage back. There should be at least two feet of clearance on all sides.

When cleaning the unit, make sure it is shaded. Direct sunlight can strain the system and overheat the compressor. Additionally, make sure there’s a barrier that prevents small animals from getting into the unit.

5. Look For Dirt Inside the Unit

Your AC’s coils and fins are prone to getting dirty. If they become coated, this can interfere with heat transfer and may also damage the coils, especially if they freeze. Combined with restricted airflow, dirt can cause the system to work harder and less efficiently. The unit can even overheat and break down. 

If you have some experience, you can turn off the system, open the unit, and vacuum out excess dirt. The coils and fins can be cleaned with a soft brush. But this may require removing the fan and other components. Call a professional if you notice the unit is dirty and you haven’t cleaned it before.

6. Check the Thermostat Regularly

The thermostat is a small part of your HVAC system but can malfunction and cause numerous issues. A faulty thermostat can cause your AC to run constantly or short cycle. Avoiding these issues can prevent wear and tear that can damage your air conditioner. 

Look for changes in accuracy to determine if your thermostat needs to be checked by a professional. This can indicate an issue with placement or a low battery. A wiring problem can also affect how the thermostat works and trigger an electric shock or a fire.

7. Keep the Vents Open

Don’t close vents in unused rooms. People often do this thinking they can save energy. However, closed vents can disrupt airflow and create pressure variances that can damage your AC system. Also, make a visual note of where the vents are and avoid blocking them with storage units, furniture, or drapes.

8. Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

The condensate drain is another important part of your AC system. An air conditioner collects moisture from the air, which is removed via the condensate drain. If this drain gets clogged, mold and algae can grow inside it. Water damage can occur if the drain overflows. Since unclogging the line can be a tricky process, it’s best to hire a professional for AC repair. 

Call Trio Heating & Air for AC Repair Near The Greater San Francisco Bay Area

Properly maintaining your air conditioner can avoid major repairs. Call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, such as reduced cooling performance, strange noises, weak airflow, foul odors, or higher energy bills. Our licensed technicians can diagnose and fix any problem. They’re also familiar with every type of air conditioner and AC component. If you’re dealing with any cooling issues, schedule an AC repair by calling (415) 223-5096 today.

A ductless mini-split AC is a reliable, efficient solution whether you’re building a new home or retrofitting an older one. It is becoming a popular air conditioning option for homeowners. Consisting of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, a mini-split is a flexible solution with many advantages, from personalized comfort to improved efficiency. 

Is it nearing the time for air conditioning installation or replacement in your home? Here are some pros and cons of ductless mini-split ACs to help you decide.

Pros of Ductless Mini-Split ACs

The many benefits of installing one of these systems include:

• Simpler Installation: A ductless mini-split AC system consists of an outdoor unit, indoor air handlers, and a conduit between them. Eliminating ductwork simplifies installation. No significant home modifications are needed, except for drilling a small hole in an exterior wall for the conduit, which contains the refrigerant, drainage, and electrical lines.
• Flexible Placement: Indoor units can be placed wherever you need cooling. They are typically installed high up on a wall, while ceiling cassettes and other space-saving options are available. Compact designs can blend in with your interior decor. No matter where you choose to install a mini-split unit, complex demolitions or renovations are avoided while floor space is preserved.
• Zoned Temperature Control: A central HVAC system conditions all the air in your home at once. However, a ductless mini-split AC provides zone-based temperature control. Each indoor unit can be operated independently, meaning the temperature can be set per each occupant’s preferences or a building’s layout and usage. You can also keep bedrooms cooler than the living room. Units in unoccupied spaces can be turned off to save energy.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: There’s less energy consumption for a few reasons. Mini-split ACs eliminate energy loss from ductwork, avoid cooling areas that don’t need it, and use inverters that adjust compressor speed to match specific temperature needs. Some mini-split systems also double as heat pumps, which provide heating and cooling. With a ductless system, any level of efficiency equals reduced operating costs.
• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Not only do these systems avoid the buildup of dust and particulates common in ductwork, but they also have higher-quality, multi-stage filtration systems that effectively remove dust, mold, and bacteria. This is ideal for occupants with allergies or respiratory issues. Ductless mini-split ACs are effective at controlling humidity as well; by removing excess moisture, they can help prevent mold, eliminate stuffiness, and promote an overall healthier living space.
• Quieter Performance: Other HVAC systems tend to produce more noise. However, these systems are quieter. They can operate as low as 19 decibels, or the sound level of a whisper. You don’t have to be distracted by the humming, whirring, or banging sounds that are common with ducted systems. The air handlers can also be placed farther away from the outdoor unit so the compressor’s noise and vibration won’t distract you.

Cons of Ductless Mini-Split ACs

Despite their many benefits, there can be downsides, including:

• Higher Installation Costs: The initial cost is often higher than installing a central AC (however, it’s often offset by energy savings throughout the system’s life). Purchasing multiple indoor units can add to the expense. Furthermore, the system’s power requirements may justify electrical modifications and upgrades, while electrical connections require a qualified professional. And, depending on the system’s configuration, you may need to purchase a condensate pump.
• Indoor Units Can Have Aesthetic Impacts: You may need to move interior decor to make room for indoor air handlers. Some people are distracted by their placement throughout their homes. Outdoor units can be bulky and obtrusive, which can be addressed with proper placement or the use of covers or panels. Your HVAC installer can provide equipment and design options that reduce the visual clutter and maximize both functionality and aesthetics.
• Limited Capacity for Large Spaces: Compared to other air conditioners, the units are designed to cool smaller areas. Therefore, you may experience uneven cooling or a limited airflow range in a large room. Ductless mini-splits come in different sizes. Consult with your HVAC professional to determine the best system for your home.
• Reduced Performance During Extreme Temperatures: These systems work best in moderate climates. However, in extremely hot conditions, a ductless AC’s cooling performance may be limited. Extreme cold can also cause issues; you may need a supplemental heating system if your mini-split doesn’t have a sufficient heat source.
• Maintenance Requirements: A mini-split is efficient and versatile, but requires regular maintenance. The air filters must be changed or replaced regularly (for every air handler installed), and you should check for visible issues with equipment every three to four months. The outdoor unit must be kept unobstructed to maintain proper airflow. A technician must check refrigerant levels and ensure there are no electrical hazards. These tasks reduce the risk of breakdowns and can increase system longevity.
• Possible Noise Concerns: The noise level of a ductless mini-split depends on the equipment model and placement. This is especially true if the outdoor unit is close to a bedroom. Some municipalities have stricter noise regulations. A professional can help address these concerns by selecting options with low-decibel ratings and cleaning the fan and motor often.

Contact Us Today

Trio Heating & Air provides ductless mini-split and other air conditioning services in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Our experienced professionals help you find a solution that meets your cooling needs. We guarantee fast response times, high-quality service, and installation of the best products and brands in the industry. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our special offers and maintenance plan, use our online booking system or call (415) 234-4728.

To benefit from AC replacement, you must find the right AC unit for your home. It’s important to consult with an air conditioning service contractor. Whether your existing system is reaching the end of its life or is outdated, you have an opportunity to find a more energy-efficient system. However, ignoring important details or making a mistake can have costly consequences.

Finding the right AC unit requires knowing the size of the model you need. We’ll look at numerous factors related to air conditioner sizing and other variables to discuss with your HVAC contractor. 

Square Footage

Square footage isn’t the only size variable to consider when selecting an AC unit. Nonetheless, the square footage of individual rooms and your entire home is usually the first place to start. The larger your home, the more cooling capacity you need. Miscalculating capacity can mean getting too much or too little cool air and spending more on energy.

Ceiling Height

Ceiling heights aren’t included in square footage, but if your home has higher ceiling heights than average, it will require more power to be properly cooled. Ceiling height also influences air circulation. You’ll need a higher-capacity unit to counteract the accumulation of rising warmer air. Irregular airflow patterns caused by sloped or vaulted ceilings must also be considered. 

Number of Windows

It may seem less obvious, but windows have a big impact on an AC unit’s efficiency. If you have a lot of south- and west-facing windows, more sunlight causes higher heat gain, requiring a stronger AC. Other window-related AC sizing factors include:

• Number of Windows: More windows mean more opportunities for heat gain and air leakage.
• Age of Windows: Older windows tend to let more air seep in and are less insulated.
• Window Coverings: Blinds, curtains, and other coverings help windows be more efficient by blocking out sunlight.

Insulation

Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics can affect AC efficiency. Each insulating material has an R-value; the higher the number, the greater a material’s thermal resistance (ability to prevent heat transfer). Replacing old materials or filling in poorly insulated gaps or spots with high R-value insulation can reduce energy consumption.

Climate

The climate conditions in your area determine how much cooling you need. A smaller air conditioner won’t perform well in soaring summer temperatures, and if your region sees cooler summers, a larger system may not be cost-effective. Nonetheless, you must consider the temperature range throughout the year, along with typical humidity levels.

About Calculating Cooling Capacity

The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The larger your home, the more BTUs you’ll need, but the requirements vary. For example, a well-insulated, shaded room generally needs 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but rooms with average insulation and moderate sun exposure may need 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot. However, a brightly lit room with poor insulation can require 35 to 40 BTUs per square foot.

Therefore, capacity requirements can vary significantly. Other factors that influence BTU requirements include the number of occupants, lighting fixtures, and the presence of heat-generating appliances. For a novice, working all these variables in a calculation can be overwhelming.

An HVAC professional has an easier way to perform a load calculation and find the right AC for your home. They may use formulas to input specific numbers. Or, they can use load calculation software tools that further streamline the process. This means load calculations can take less time, but this doesn’t minimize their importance at all.

About Efficiency Ratings

Every air conditioning unit has an efficiency rating on its label. You can use this to compare units and predict how a system will operate under standard conditions. Energy efficiency ratings include:

• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This is an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency throughout a typical cooling season. Higher SEER ACs cost more upfront but consume less electricity and can save money over time.
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): By measuring a unit’s cooling capacity under standard conditions, its EER can estimate how it will perform during peak demand and predict how it will operate during extreme temperatures.

Finding the Right Type of AC Unit

Sizing, efficiency, and other factors are heavily considered. It’s also important to consider the best type of unit. If you have a small home or a smaller room to cool, a window unit is an option. Central air conditioning systems are often used to cool entire homes; they use ducts to distribute air throughout the space. 

However, a split unit is better suited for cooling a smaller space or individual room. More advanced solutions include heat pumps (provide both heating and cooling) that are even more efficient. Another option is a mini-split; it allows you to zone your home for different levels of heating or cooling in different locations.

Additional Considerations

An AC unit must fit in the available space. If you have a small home, you may have fewer options. Also, consider the HVAC equipment you have. Does it match the AC unit you want to install? Will the new AC and your ductwork be compatible? If your ducts aren’t the appropriate length and diameter, issues with air velocity and pressure drop can affect performance and efficiency. To avoid persistent issues, you may want to consider replacing your entire HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

In our years of serving homeowners in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our licensed AC technicians have installed high-efficiency cooling systems tailored to each client’s needs. We use the highest-quality products and brands and guarantee the highest quality of work. During AC replacement, our team advises you on the ideal model for your home and will remove your old unit, install the new system, and test it. To schedule air conditioning installation in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.

It’s no secret that furnace maintenance can save you money. An annual tune-up can improve efficiency and avoid major repairs and early replacement. But it’s not the only way to care for your furnace. Many DIY furnace maintenance steps are effective. We’ll look at simple ways you can maintain your heating system throughout the year and some more advanced tasks to take on if you’re comfortable.

1. Replace the Air Filter

The air filter traps contaminants such as dust and pollen to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. The filter should be replaced every three months or whenever it’s dirty or clogged. When changing it, note the filter’s length, width, and depth (it’s usually printed on the side of the filter) or measure it, as you’ll need to install a filter of the same size. 

The filter slot should be where the return air duct connects to the furnace. This is usually on the side near the bottom. Open the door or panel covering the filter and remove the old one. When inserting the new filter, make sure the arrows on it point toward the furnace.

2. Change the Oil Filter

If you have an oil furnace, the oil filter prevents impurities from blocking the oil burner nozzle. A clogged nozzle can cause a misfire. The system will then shut down. Replacing the oil filter requires closing the oil valve, removing the dirty filter, and disposing of it in compliance with your area’s hazardous waste regulations. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new oil filter.

3. Keep the Exterior Clean

Dirt and dust on your furnace can get inside and make it inefficient. Cleaning outer surfaces is simple. You can use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the metal case. Clean the area around the unit too. 

There also shouldn’t be any clutter nearby, which can inhibit airflow or make it hazardous to work around your furnace. Remove boxes, tools, or toys. In addition, vacuum floor registers and then remove them to vacuum out duct connection points as well. This can improve efficiency and indoor air quality.

4. Clean the Air Registers

Air registers throughout your home tend to collect dust, lint, pet hair, and other debris. If a register is clogged, it can restrict airflow, similar to a blocked filter. Therefore, the furnace will work harder to maintain the set temperature, so maintenance isn’t limited to the unit itself or its immediate surroundings. All registers should be removed and cleaned with a high-power vacuum.

5. Check the Flue Pipe

The flue connects the furnace to its exhaust system. Remove any debris blocking it and look for cracks or other signs of damage. Any issues can cause harmful gases to leak into your home, including deadly carbon monoxide. Dirt or debris can be removed from the flue pipe by removing the access panel and using a brush or vacuum with an attachment. Reattach the panel when you’re done.

Inspect the outside of the flue pipe. If there are small holes, they can be patched temporarily with foil tape. But if there are larger areas of damage or corrosion, call a professional to repair or replace the flue.

6. Clean the Furnace Drain Pipes

The condensate lines of a high-efficiency furnace remove excess moisture. If they get clogged, water can back up and cause a leak. The condensate line is usually connected to a floor drain or external outlet near the furnace. To clean it, disconnect the line from both ends and flush out debris using either a gentle stream of water or a vacuum hose. If the line is clogged with mineral deposits, clear it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

7. Clean the Flame Sensor, Pilot, and Ignitor

Only access the inside of the furnace if you’re comfortable doing so. The inner workings are quite sensitive. They are also prone to getting dirty. With the furnace’s power and gas supply off, remove the access panel and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly. Remove the sensor gently and clean any debris with a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper. Then reinsert the sensor and make sure it’s secure.

Next, remove dust or dirt from the pilot light with a small brush or compressed air. Depending on your furnace model, the pilot assembly may have to be removed for cleaning. Also, clean the ignitor, which is a critical combustion component, and check for cracks or other signs of damage. Check the wiring connections for signs of corrosion or looseness as well.

Contact Trio Heating & Air’s Furnace Maintenance Professionals

Our technicians are experienced in maintaining, installing, and repairing many types of heating systems. You can save money by properly caring for your furnace throughout the year. We also recommend scheduling maintenance in the fall so the unit runs smoothly all winter. Our comprehensive maintenance services help avoid major repairs and breakdowns and extend your furnace’s operating life. To schedule maintenance or other heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 223-5615 today.

Cleaning a furnace requires time and effort and is not a simple undertaking. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional furnace cleaner at least once a year. It can be part of your annual heating maintenance visit. Other than changing the filter, which is simple, you should rely on a trained technician for more complex furnace and heating services.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Furnace Cleaner

Furnace maintenance keeps your heating unit running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It can prevent big repairs and give your furnace a few more years of life. A thorough furnace cleaning has many benefits. We’ll now look at why you need a professional to help keep your furnace clean:

• Keep the Warranty Valid: Furnace cleanings may be required annually, depending on the warranty. Neglecting to hire a professional to clean the unit can void the warranty. Therefore, it won’t provide coverage to repair a major issue related to accumulated dirt and debris.
• Improved Efficiency: Dirty burners, sensors, blower assemblies, heat exchangers, vents, and other components cause your furnace to work harder. The more it runs, the more energy and fuel it uses. This means regular cleanings can maximize efficiency so you pay less for your monthly utility bills. Your furnace can operate in shorter, more regular cycles to provide a comfortable temperature.
• Cleaner Furnaces Burn Cleaner: Dust, debris, and carbon buildup on burners and inside the combustion chamber can contribute to the release of pollutants. A thorough cleaning removes the buildup to protect the air quality in your home and the environment in general. It can also prevent gases and fumes from building up and leaking into your home.
• A Safer Home: Dirt in ignition components, the burner assembly, and the heat exchanger can interfere with how your furnace works and create various safety hazards. A professional furnace cleaner can take steps to prevent harmful gases and particulates from contaminating your home. They can also help prevent a fire due to a poorly maintained furnace and avoid a carbon monoxide leak that you cannot see or smell but can be deadly.
• Your Furnace Can Last Longer: When they’re coated in dirt and grime, heating elements and electrical components wear out much faster, so your furnace can fail sooner. Preventative furnace maintenance, including cleaning, helps address minor issues to effectively extend your heating system’s lifespan. 
• Cost Savings Over Time: An annual maintenance and cleaning service is a small expense compared to dealing with consistently higher heating bills, major repairs, and having to replace your furnace prematurely. You can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your heating system.
• Less Noise from Your Furnace: As your furnace starts up and runs, you can hear its rumble when you’re nearby. The unit will become louder and vibrate more if it’s not cleaned properly. A furnace cleaner eliminates the buildup that causes the system to run more loudly. They can also tighten screws and secure loose panels, pipe brackets, ducts, and other components to reduce noise.
• Remove Duct Obstructions: During a furnace cleaning, the technician should also check for and clear any duct obstructions. Air ducts and vents near your furnace can clog with dirt, soot, and even rodents. A common sign of obstructions is rooms that don’t heat as effectively as others. Proper furnace maintenance can avoid these and other issues.
• Replace the Oil Filter: A furnace professional will replace the oil filter during maintenance (if you have an oil furnace). This should be done whenever cleaning the unit. Whether the oil level gets low or sludge and grime fill the tank, the filter can get clogged. Changing the filter allows more oil to reach the furnace; the technician can also remove sludge from the tank so your furnace provides optimal heating.

What Should I Know About Changing My Furnace Filter?

Don’t wait for a professional furnace cleaner to change the air filter. Your furnace has either a disposable or cleanable filter. The product manual should identify the type, recommended size, and location. Disposable filters are pleated or non-pleated and come in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings of 1 to 16 (for most homes, a MERV 6-12 filter is sufficient).

• Changing a Disposable Filter: To change a disposable filter, turn off the furnace’s electricity, open the front panel, and slide the old filter out. When installing the new filter, note the direction of the arrow, which indicates the airflow direction. The size of the filter on the filter frame and the door must match. Also, make sure the markings align when sliding the new filter in. Then close the panel, turn the power back on, and note when you replaced the filter (the entire process should take less than 15 minutes).
• Cleaning a Washable Filter: If the furnace has a washable filter, follow the same steps to remove it. Once the filter is removed, run a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment over the media. This should remove all dust and debris, and light should once again pass through the filter. Spray a mix of mild detergent and water on the filter and then hose it off in the sink. Set the filter aside to dry before reinstalling it.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

Regular furnace tune-ups and cleanings help your heating unit run more efficiently and improve safety and reliability. We specialize in maintaining gas, oil, and electric furnaces. For professional furnace maintenance in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-5096 today. 

Faulty AC coils can cause serious problems, so schedule AC repair as soon as you notice something is wrong. Evaporator and condenser coils transport refrigerant so an HVAC system can collect and dissipate heat. It won’t do so effectively if the coils are damaged. Fortunately, the effects are noticeable, so you should know when to call a local AC contractor.

How Do AC Coils Work?

The evaporator and condenser coils are connected by coolant lines, which bring refrigerant to and from the condenser. A fan in the condenser unit dissipates heat from the refrigerant in the lines. The compressor then pumps the coolant back to the evaporator, where coils absorb heat and a blower pushes cool air into ducts. The coolant returns to the condenser to dissipate heat once again.

Signs You Have Faulty AC Coils

The most common effects of faulty AC coils in your home include:

• Refrigerant Leak: A leak can occur if an object falls against the coils. The coils can also become corroded due to exposure to acidic compounds in the air. If you see a refrigerant leak, call for help right away. It can do major damage to your AC and is a toxic chemical; exposure can lead to skin and respiratory problems.
• Environmental Damage: Coolant can harm the environment if it leaks from a damaged AC coil. It can contribute to atmospheric warming and ozone layer depletion (especially older R-22 Freon). A hissing sound from the coils means refrigerant gas is escaping.
• Reduced Cooling Efficiency: Refrigerant enables your AC system to generate cool air. A lack of cooling is one of the leading signs of faulty AC coils. Damaged coils cannot absorb heat effectively, so the system may not cool your home, or the cooling it provides will be inconsistent. Some rooms can be much cooler than others instead of the normal uniform distribution of air.
• A Noisy AC: Most air conditioners operate nearly silently. You should be used to the sound of the fan and airflow. If the evaporator coil is broken, you may hear a hissing or banging noise. These sounds mean refrigerant is leaking or loose or misaligned components are hitting other parts of your AC system. Ignoring any unusual noises can lead to even more significant damage.
• Frozen Coils: Ice can form on coils due to a refrigerant leak. Low refrigerant levels reduce the amount of heat transported through the lines, cooling them enough to cause condensation to freeze (poor airflow can also do so). The ice further contributes to the problem because it insulates the refrigerant, inhibiting heat transfer. Therefore, the air in your house is not cooled.
• Higher Energy Bills: Worn or damaged coils force your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. The extra work increases energy consumption. As a result, your monthly energy bills may increase suddenly or gradually without a clear reason. And, if your AC system works harder for a long period, major components can wear out, requiring costly repairs.
• The AC Short Cycles: The air conditioner may cycle on and off frequently if the evaporator coils can’t absorb enough heat. Short cycling wastes energy and can strain the system. The extra wear and tear can lead to expensive repairs or premature system failure. Call an AC contractor near you if the unit starts to run in shorter cycles.

How Do I Protect My AC Coils?

Check the AC coils often to reduce the risk of damage. Dust, hair, grime, and dirt can build up on them over time. The longer you wait, the harder the buildup is to remove. Use an AC coil cleaner or hose off outdoor coils to prevent damage, or call a contractor for help. If the coils freeze, have them check for a leak or airflow issue and, if necessary, correct it.

What’s the Safest Coil Cleaner to Use?

Use an AC coil cleaner that’s labeled for use with your type of system. The user manual or your AC installer may recommend certain products. You can also use a mix of water and mild dish detergent, and even add a little distilled white vinegar, for effective cleaning.

Should a Faulty AC Coil Be Repaired or Replaced?

Coils may be sealed or repaired if the damage is limited to a small area. However, a leak is often caused by eroded metal and corrosion. If part of the coil is corroded, other areas are likely affected. An HVAC contractor will generally recommend replacing it, which can be less expensive than a repair and recharge.

Call Trio Heating & Air

We provide high-quality AC repair services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a faulty AC coil or any other problem, our skilled professionals find the most cost-effective, permanent solution. They promptly evaluate the effects of any problem so it can be quickly diagnosed and repaired. Our team also provides high-quality AC installation and maintenance. To learn more or schedule air conditioning services from experienced AC contractors near you, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.