Residents of Napa often look forward to the summer months, but as they start to approach some people begin to worry. Specifically, locals who have discovered problems with their air conditioners feel mounting pressure to find effective repair options before the weather puts them at its mercy. If you want to avoid sweating and panting from the end of May to the end of August, you’ll want to make sure you always have comprehensive repair options for your air conditioner. There are several strategies you should employ to ensure your cooling system is always ready to run when you need it.
The first thing to do is to make sure that you’re performing as much preventative maintenance on your system as you are capable of doing by yourself. Being proactive pays off in many ways over time. You’ll save money on minor repairs that don’t warrant professional help and reduce the wear and tear that causes larger problems to develop more frequently. However, it’s important to realize that some problems are beyond the abilities of the average homeowner. Knowing when you’re in over your head will allow you to use your resources judiciously, and call a professional for Napa air conditioning repair services when you absolutely can’t do without one.
This guide is here to help you do the best you can on your own, and find a pro for cost-effective repairs when circumstances demand it. Read on, and discover how you can make Napa air conditioning repair the least of your summertime blues.
Preventative Maintenance 101
Most air conditioner owners in Napa don’t understand just how much they can do to keep their cooling systems ready for summer. The good news is that you have a lot more power than you probably think. Bear in mind that most serious AC problems are caused by negligence, which means that paying attention to a few key areas will increase the longevity of your most expensive and sensitive components. Here are a few easy things you can do to keep your system from wearing out before its time:
First of all, you’ll want to make sure that your AC is powered down. It should go without saying that trying to fix a system while fans are moving and electricity is flowing through it can be dangerous, so turn everything off. Next, go outside and have a look at your exterior unit. Many common problems related to air quality and energy efficiency begin here.
Poor air quality is often caused by blockages in the outdoor unit. Once this occurs, two things are likely to happen: the air in your system will become stale, and the flow will be congested, forcing your compressor to work harder than necessary. You’ll spend more power (i.e., money) to cool your home, and your compressor will be at a greater risk of failing completely. Compressor repair can cost upwards of $1000, so mitigate your risks by giving your outdoor unit some TLC on a regular basis.
The easiest way to do this is by changing the filters and cleaning the fans. Open the fan cage, and be sure to empty it of any debris you see inside. While you’re at it, remove similar objects away from the unit in a two or three-foot radius, since they can blow into the unit and bring the problem back. Do this every week or two, and at the end of each month swap out your existing air filter for a current high-efficiency model.
When to Call for Help
Changing your filters and cleaning your fan blades is essential stuff, and you should have no trouble doing it by yourself. However, most other problems require the services of a licensed HVAC technician who is trained to deal with leaking refrigerant or handle sensitive electrical components. If you notice water pooling around your indoor unit, experience a burning smell or hear loud noises while running your system, stop using it and call for help immediately.
Choosing a licensed contractor for air conditioning repairs in Napa is important since the state of California requires licenses for all AC contractors whose projects exceed $500. Qualified HVAC techs will have a C-20 license, which proves that they’ve passed two exams and completed a minimum of four years in the industry as a journeyman.
Being qualified is important, but you’ll also want to make sure your contractor gives you a fair price. Familiarize yourself with the average costs of maintenance and repairs in your area, so that you can tell when someone is offering you a reasonable estimate. If something seems off, make sure you push for an explanation. Contractors who truly know their work and pride themselves on honesty will be able to explain the difference.
For the best Napa air conditioning repair, make sure you take good care of your system throughout the year and don’t hesitate to call a professional when the need arises. Knowing the difference between a serious problem and a small maintenance issue can save you lots of money, and knowing what to look for in a repair technician can ensure that whatever you do pay for provides you with great value. Understand both of these concepts, and you’ll be well on your way to a cool Napa summer. Contact us for more information.