1) What are the most common problems with air conditioning systems?
From electrical problems, to the compressor, there are a wide variety of problems that can occur with your Mesa AZ AC Repair. If you’re having problems, it is best to call several trusted contractors to get opinions on which is the best road to take – whether it be a repair or a replacement. Most repairs and replacements stem from a lack of regular maintenance. When the air conditioning systems and coils become too dirty they will not cool properly.
2) How do I know if my air conditioning system (HVAC system) is working efficiently?
If you are happy with your electric bill in the summer and you are comfortable in your house, then you probably have a fairly efficient system. Our trained professionals can also come to your house and evaluate your HVAC system and provide you with consultation regarding efficiency. If your air conditioning unit is more than ten years old, there is a good chance that a new unit could be as much as %65 more efficient and more environmentally friendly as well.
3) How much does it cost to have a new air conditioning system installed?
There is such a wide variety of brands, house sizes, quality of construction of homes, and other factors which can dramatically affect the cost of a new HVAC system. Since a consultation and proposal is free of charge, it is best to get some actual quotes for your specific home.
4) What are the best ways to increase my cooling system’s efficiency, and lower my electricity bill?
One of the most important things you can do to increase your HVAC system’s efficiency is to replace or clean your filters often, and regularly. Air flow, ventilation, and filtration are all extremely important when it comes to efficiency, comfort, and air quality. It is also important to have clean and properly sealed ducts, so that air is not being trapped in ducts or released into the attic. Other major factors would include getting shades, shutter, blinds, etc. for all windows which receive direct sunlight, proper insulation in your walls and attic, well placed trees to shade the high sun parts of the house, and making sure your windows and doors are properly sealed.
5) How is the efficiency of my HVAC system measured?
HVAC professionals use the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating system which measures the amount of cooling your unit can deliver per dollar. As an average, most decent 3 ton residential units should have a SEER rating somewhere between 14 and 17.
6) How do I know if my air conditioning unit is the right size?
HVAC systems and their capacities are measured by tonnage. A “one-ton” system can remove 12,000 British thermal units of heat per hour. Most residential systems range from one to five tons. Generally speaking, and depending on the construction of you home, one ton of air conditioning can cool between 400 and 800 square feet in your home. There are a lot of factors which determine the optimal size of HVAC unit and system that you will need from the layout and construction of your home to the amount of exposure your home has to direct sunlight. It is important to consult a trustworthy professional when determining which system will be the most efficient for you, and the easiest on your wallet. Installing a system that has too much capacity can be just as expensive as installing a system that is not large enough.
7) How can I make sure my A/C contractor is not ripping me off?
When determining which contractor to hire, one should consider all of the following questions:
- What experience and qualifications does this contractor have? There are hundreds of inexperienced, under-qualified, and unlicensed “contractors” out there who will take your money and run, sell you parts and services you don’t need, or do a horrible job at fixing or replacing your air conditioning system. Ask for credentials, and check the company out on the Arizona registrar of contractors’ website.
- What is the track record of this company and what do their customers say about them? Never be afraid to do some research and talk to people who have had experience with the contractor you are about to hire. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for some references. Check out their website
- Is the rep who is at my house a technician who will work on my house, or is he a trained commissioned salesman? Many of the larger companies who are only in business for the money, and care little about integrity and job satisfaction will sell you parts and services you don’t really need.
- Have I gotten a second opinion? One of the most important ways to avoid getting ripped off is getting a second and maybe a third opinion. A less honest contractor will not give you his best price up front, and his story will change as he finds out you are getting more quotes.
- Does this contractor promptly return my calls and meet my scheduling needs? Many inexperienced or unprofessional contractors become extremely hard to get a hold of during the busy season – usually because they are understaffed, have poor customer service, or are just disorganized. Don’t settle for less than the best. If they are flaky and unprofessional from the beginning, it will only get worse.
- Are you following your “gut instincts”? You should feel like you can trust your contractor – like he or she could become your long-term HVAC consultant and friend in the business. If you feel uncomfortable about the person in your home – there is probably a reason! It is surprising how many customers choose their contractor based on price alone, and end up saying, “If only I would have trusted my instincts!”