Central air is one of the more pleasant additions to the home that the modern age has given us. Previously common only among the wealthy, more and more homeowners (and especially our kids) have becoming accustomed to the advantages of having a climate controlled home in the summer. This, unfortunately, makes the hassle of an out-of-order air conditioner an even more common problem. That’s where we can help.
Pickerington Heating & Cooling offers 24 hour emergency air conditioning/HVAC repair services for all major makes and models of air conditioning systems. Our A/C repair technicians provide quick and efficient repairs for residential A/C systems. Our air conditioning repair services are available throughout Canal Winchester and surrounding areas; our expertly trained A/C service technicians have the training, experience and diagnostic tools to get to the root of your problem quickly. You’ll be able to return to enjoying indoor comfort in your home soon after calling us.
What About the DIY Route for Air Conditioning Repair?
Air conditioner repair is one of those tasks that few Canal Winchester homeowners can handle themselves, because the knowledge and equipment involved are specialized enough to require a highly-trained technician. Also, handling of the refrigerant in a modern A/C system requires training. However, there are a few things that you can check prior to calling for service that might enhance the performance of your central air conditioning and save you the cost of a service call (or at least keep your spouse off your back!)
- If the compressor/fan doesn’t turn on, check the breaker at your home’s breaker box.
- If the unit runs but doesn’t cool, the refrigerant could be low. If that’s the case, you need a local service professional (you know who to call).
- Check around the condenser coil (the outside unit) for dirt and/or blockage by organic material on either side. A common problem in the Canal Winchester area is tree pollen collecting in the fins of the compressor. If they are, gently brush and vacuum them. This is a good idea to perform at least twice a season.
- If the A/C is performing inefficiently (partial cooling), check to make sure the condenser is clean; also check to see if the filter is clean.
- Check for a water leak near the furnace, it could be a clogged drainpipe from the evaporator coil pan. Check the pipe and clear it if it is clogged.
Repair Central A/C: Hiring a Professional
The repairs most homeowners can do themselves when it comes to A/C repair are very limited. In most cases, air conditioning problems are too involved for even many die hard do-it-yourselfers to tackle. Once you’ve established that the problem is beyond the scope of anyone but a pro, there are a few things to consider.
The best time to repair central A/C is before the weather gets hot. Our repair technicians get pretty busy during the summer months, and their services being in high demand makes it more difficult to schedule a visit. We limit our service calls to Canal Winchester and surrounding areas, keeping travel time to a minimum. Our service techs are usually available quickly. By calling for service before the cooling season begins, you will be more likely to find a convenient appointment time, and you may even save a couple bucks, too. At the very least, you’ll be prepared for any hot weather that comes your way before it hits.
Getting a semi-annual air conditioning inspection is another good way to keep your unit running at peak performance. Since some A/C problems come about very gradually, you might not notice that there is anything wrong at all before you’re stuck in sticky, sweaty weather with a malfunctioning cooling unit. A yearly inspection will identify any existing problems before they grow enough to become pricey, and might even diagnose potential problems before they occur. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is more than just an old adage, it’s the truth!
A/C Repair vs. Replacement
During the life of every mechanical device, there comes a time when it’s more appropriate to throw in the towel than it is to patch it up. If your air conditioner has given you decades of fine service, but simply can’t run any longer without contstant repairs, you might be better off with a new installation. Not only will a new unit come with a guarantee for great performance over the next few years, today’s air conditioners are far more efficient than those of even 10 or 15 years ago. You’re likely to have a more comfortable home and save some money on your monthly energy bills in the process!
If you suspect your air conditioner needs repair or replacement, contact Pickerington Heating & Cooling at 614-837-4026. Our offices are open 7:00 am to 9:00 pm weekdays; 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Saturday & Sunday; emergency A/C repair service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
