Feb. 6, 2015 | by Improper operation of a home’s central air conditioner is one of the leading—and most expensive—repair problems that homeowners face, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Knowing the source, typical cost and remedy for five of the most common central air conditioner issues can save homeowners money while preserving energy resources.Improper operation describes the misuse of a home’s HVAC system, including air conditioning. Failing to use HVAC equipment thoughtfully and in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines can drive up a home’s energy costs, squander resources, and shorten the lifespan of the equipment. Four other common air conditioning repair problems that routinely arise from central air conditioners:For little to no cost, a homeowner can remedy operational woes with a central air conditioner simply by learning to use it correctly. Many service calls to professional HVAC companies are from homeowners who do not understand how their system operates, and overcompensate by radically changing thermostats or restricting airflow.

The Federal Energy Star program recommends common-sense measures to get the most out of cooling equipment:Seal the home and its ducts — use weather-stripping, caulk, and insulated ducts Change or clean filters — regular central air conditioner filter replacement improves efficiency and lowers costs; for permanent filters, the homeowner should clean them at least monthly during cooling season Tune up — get an annual HVAC inspection, cleaning and maintenance from a qualified professionalOther simple, inexpensive measures include keeping doors and windows closed when the system is running, using a programmable thermostat to decrease use when the home is empty, and providing basic guidance to all family members on wise use of the central air conditioner. The HVAC repair technicians you invite into your home to work on your expensive equipment should know their business. Many do not, however, and misdiagnose problems. A very few may attempt to upcharge for common and less expensive repairs.

North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified technicians can save homeowners money with correct diagnoses and proper service. Costs vary nationally, but here is a rough idea of the common repair costs:Moving into a home with an existing central air conditioning system, a homeowner is at a disadvantage. Service history is unknown, installation procedures can only be guessed at, and the home inspection report may or may not identify deficiencies in the various components.A thorough inspection by a professional HVAC contractor can uncover installation errors that, one by one, could lead to costly and frequent repairs:Too big or too little — equipment has not been sized according to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J, which guides cooling load calculations and then points to equipment selection (Manual S) and ductwork design (Manual D) Leaky ducts — main and branch ductwork is inadequate and restricts supply and return airflow; ducts are not sealed; flexible ducts may have been installed where rigid ducts are needed;

ducts are uninsulated Why read? — installation was not done according to the manufacturer’s installation guide and specificationsThough costs vary around the country, replacing a major part in a central air conditioning system—such as a condensing unit coil or an entire compressor—can cost over $1,000. Often, parts fail because the entire HVAC system was ignored for too long. From bent coil fins to clogged condensate drains, the damage from neglect can become a huge financial burden. central ac unit brand reviewsA homeowner can keep these parts in good shape:Filters — regular replacement increases lifespan and energy efficiency Coils — on the outside unit, the homeowner can hose down the coil and use a brush to remove dirt; ac unit companieskeep branches and away from the condenser; wall/window mounted air conditioning units

inside, clean evaporator coils with a soft-bristle brush Fins — Use a fin comb to straighten aluminum fins around the coils Condensate drains — Run a stiff wire through the drain channels to avoid backups of condensate; clogs cause increased humidity and risks of mold and mildewDue to R-22 refrigerant phase-out, homeowners with older systems face uncertainty. The old refrigerant will no longer be manufactured after 2020, and quality replacements are available today. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners familiarize themselves with choices, such as R-410A, and discuss replacement with their HVAC professional. Common problems with refrigerant:Too much or too little — a technician must precisely charge the system according to manufacturer’s directions; undercharging leads to a warm house Leaks — very harmful to the environment, leaks also degrade the system’s efficiency and a home’s comfort Intentional venting — releasing R-22 into the air, rather than recapturing it, is illegal and wasteful

The outstanding reputation we have at Bodine-Scott is built on more than 50 years of experience in the heating and cooling industry. That experience means homeowners and business owners in Corpus Christi, TX and the surrounding communities can trust us to deliver superior air conditioning services at an affordable price. Our technicians are experts at installing, repairing, and maintaining residential and commercial climate systems that keep our customers comfortable throughout the year. We maintain our expertise through frequent, hands-on factory training and remain up-to-date on the latest installation and repair techniques. Our installation specialists and technicians are certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the highest level of certification for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technicians that can be achieved. Whether you need a furnace repaired or central air conditioning installed, Bodine-Scott has a long-standing history of providing superior customer service to the Corpus Christi area.