Get matched with top heating and air conditioning pros in Carney, OK

While all portable AC units will collect moisture as part of their cooling and dehumidifying process, whether and how often you need to drain them depends on what kind of unit you have and the natural humidity levels where you live. For example, if you live in a very dry area and have a self-evaporating unit, you may not need to drain your portable AC very often at all. Some units may automatically drain collected moisture out the window through their exhaust vent.

NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification is not legally required for HVAC technicians in most areas, but hiring a professional with this certification is highly recommended. NATE-certified technicians demonstrated their expertise and proficiency in different types of HVAC systems, offering assurance of quality service. It's a voluntary certification, yet it indicates a commitment to professionalism and ongoing training. Choosing a NATE-certified technician often means you're working with someone who is up-to-date on industry standards and best practices, which can lead to better service, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings.

You need to know the square footage of your home first. Multiply that number by 20, which will get you the BTUs (British Thermal Units) needed to cool your home efficiently. Homes up to 1,000 square feet usually need a 1.5-ton unit; homes 1,000 to 1,200 square feet usually need a 1.75-ton unit, and homes 1,200 to 1,400 square feet usually need a 1.9-ton unit. Talk to a local pro for more specific advice on your home. 

This depends on the extent of the freezing. Some ACs only need an hour or two to thaw out, but others may need a full day to completely unfreeze. Once you turn off the system to let it unfreeze, check it periodically to make sure the drain pan doesn’t overflow. When you turn the system back on, keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t start freezing again.