Get matched with top air conditioning pros in Ames, IA

Signs of a damaged evaporator coil include warm air from vents, frequent starts and stops without proper cooling, failure to turn on, refrigerant leaks, and unusual noises. If you suspect issues with your AC system or its components, it’s best to call an AC repair technician for proper diagnosis and repairs.

You should use a breathable, weather-resistant cover with ventilation. It can be a top cover or a full cover that has mesh to allow airflow. A full, non-breathable cover can cause moisture to build up, leading to rust, frozen parts, and corrosion. A full cover also attracts unwanted critters, such as mice, that can damage the wiring and your unit. If you need to protect your AC unit from falling icicles, choose a sturdy top cover or piece of wood that prevents icicles from damaging your unit.

You should get anywhere from three to five quotes for HVAC replacement to get an idea of the average cost of a new unit. Although this quote-collecting process can be time consuming, it allows you to compare what work is required, what type of unit you should install, and how much you should expect to pay for the service.

Not if you have a standard unit. Because portable AC units actually work to dehumidify the room, you’ll likely need to drain the unit from time to time—but you won’t have to put water into it. There is, however, another type of air conditioner called a swamp cooler that requires water to operate. If you have a swamp cooler, you may need to fill a reservoir with water and potentially ice. But a swamp cooler is different from a standard portable AC unit.