Air Conditioner

An air conditioner is a cooling system that removes heat and humidity from your home, keeping indoor spaces comfortable during warm months. Whether you need routine maintenance, a repair, or a full system replacement, understanding your options helps you make smart decisions. From central units to ductless mini-splits, Angi connects you with local pros and resources to keep your home cool all season.
Air Conditioner Service Articles and Advice
Knowing the right tonnage for an AC unit can make or break your HVAC system’s ability to cool your home. Keep reading to learn more about AC tonnage.
Can I run my AC without a filter? Discover the risks of running your AC without a filter and learn why it's crucial for indoor air quality.
How long do air conditioner coils last? Find out the average lifespan, factors that impact it, signs it’s time to replace your coils, and more.
How long does it take to replace an AC unit? Expect four to eight hours depending on the size and complexity of the new and old ACs.
How long does an AC capacitor last? Under good conditions, your capacitor may work for up to two decades—but certain conditions can shorten its life.
Before cold weather hits, it’s smart to shut off your AC so water doesn’t freeze inside. Here’s how to turn off your air conditioner to get it winter-ready.
Your AC unit is built to withstand the elements, so covering it usually isn’t necessary. Here’s what you need to know about covering your AC unit.
Discover what "dry" means on AC systems, how it works, and when to use it. Learn how to switch your AC to dry mode and its benefits for your home.
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Common Air Conditioner Service Questions

You can buy a new AC capacitor through most big-box home improvement stores, from an HVAC contractor, or from the manufacturer. Use the model number of your air conditioning unit to make sure you purchase the right part for your unit. Also, keep in mind that the cost of this type of part can vary significantly depending on who you purchase it from, so shop around to get the best price.

While you’re busy swapping out that old compressor, now is a great time to have your furnace cleaned and serviced , especially if your home is older and your heating system is as old as your AC unit. Likewise, it’s a good idea to clean your air ducts to ensure air flows properly through the house.

An air conditioner’s watt usage depends on multiple factors, including the type of AC unit, its size, and how often you use it. With that said, most central air conditioners consume between 3,000 and 3,500 watts. Meanwhile, window AC units use 900 to 1,400 watts, and portable air conditioners consume 2,900 to 4,100 watts.

You can protect your air conditioner in the winter by turning off the power at the thermostat and performing routine HVAC maintenance in the spring. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and repair of your AC unit helps protect it and extend its life span. If you have a window AC unit, remove it from the window and store it in a dry place during the winter. Window units cannot withstand freezing temperatures. Keeping them in your window also allows cold air to seep into your home.

Deciding whether to replace just the AC coil or the entire system depends on the age of your unit and the overall cost. Replacing a coil is less expensive than a full system replacement, but it can still be a pricey repair. If your HVAC system is relatively new and still under warranty, or if the replacement cost is significantly lower than a new system, replacing the coil can be a worthwhile investment that restores efficiency and extends the unit's life. However, for older systems (nearing the end of their 10-15 year lifespan) or those with extensive damage, it is often more cost-effective to replace the entire AC unit. Mismatched coils in an older system can lead to inefficiency and future breakdowns, so a full replacement ensures optimal performance and avoids further costly repairs.