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
Comparing ductless AC vs. central air for your home? This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each AC type in detail to help you make the best choice.
Why does my air conditioner turn off by itself? This is called short cycling. It's not only annoying, but it’s also costly. See what you can do about it.
A broken AC capacitor can stop your air conditioning unit in its tracks. Find out how to test an AC capacitor using a multimeter by following these steps.
If your AC went out, you probably want to have it fixed—and fast. Learn six common reasons your AC could be on the fritz and possible solutions.
Don’t ask yourself, “Why is my AC blowing hot air?” this summer. Follow along with our guide to find the most common AC issues so you can get back to being comfortable.
Squealing, rattling, thumping, or other loud noises from an air conditioner unit are usually a sign of trouble. Here’s when to call a professional.
If your AC is not working after a power outage, you’re not alone. Learn the main reasons your AC unit is having trouble and what to do.
If your AC unit sounds like running water, you may be experiencing a drainage problem. Here are some of the common causes and their solutions.
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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.