Get matched with top heating and air conditioning pros in Potts Camp, MS

To keep your air conditioner in good working condition, you should have it serviced by a professional at least once per year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season begins. If your AC unit is 10 years or older, consider servicing it twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall) to catch potential problems early and help it reach its full lifespan. During a service visit, a technician will inspect, clean, and replace parts as needed. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs. As a DIY task, you can also clean the evaporator coils annually.

A new HVAC system can increase your home's value by about 5% to 7%, which can translate to an added value of $2,500 to $3,000. The return on investment (ROI) can be around 30%, especially if you upgrade the entire system, including ductwork and insulation. Adding modern features like a smart thermostat can further increase your home’s value by making the heating and cooling systems more efficient and convenient. However, since a new unit can cost $10,000 or more to install, it's important to weigh the upfront cost against the potential increase in home value. For a specific assessment, it's best to consult a local AC installer.

The best way to reduce heat upstairs is to release it by opening a window. Hot air rises, and if you can create some airflow by opening a window upstairs and also one on a lower level, the hot air should be pushed out of the home. Remember that fans pointing out the window do a much better job of circulating air than fans pointing into the home.

Unfreezing an AC unit is not a DIY project unless the problem is a dirty air filter. Changing out an air filter is easy for homeowners, but otherwise, trying to repair ductwork, refill refrigerant, or replace a blower fan motor are tasks best left to the pros. Otherwise, you could cause further damage to your cooling system or even harm to yourself.