Little Rock, AR
AC Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common air conditioning questions we hear. Don't see yours? Contact us — we're here to help.
How can I keep my electricity bill down during the summer?
There are several steps you can take to keep your utility bills low. Keeping the thermostat at a reasonable level is the easiest first step, but you also need to consider how well your home is insulated, the efficiency of your cooling system, and how much shade your home gets. We can help you evaluate all of these factors — contact us to come take a look.
Is my air conditioner big enough for my home?
The best way to determine this is by having a professional AC technician do a load calculation on your space. However, there are a couple of clues to watch for. If your unit runs constantly just to keep up on an average summer day, it may be undersized. Conversely, if the air inside feels cool but clammy, the unit may be oversized — too large to manage humidity effectively.
My air conditioner runs all the time. Is this a problem?
On extremely hot days, your AC may need to run nearly continuously to keep up. But at a reasonable thermostat setting on a cooler day, constant running is worth investigating. The unit may need cleaning, may be undersized for your space, or a component may need to be replaced. Give us a call — we can diagnose it quickly.
What kind of regular maintenance is needed for an AC unit?
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and your indoor air clean, replace the filter every one to two months depending on its condition. Beyond the filter, have your system inspected by a professional at least once a year — ideally in the spring before cooling season begins. A tune-up catches small problems before they become expensive repairs.
How often should I clean my air conditioner?
Like any piece of machinery, parts of your air conditioner need periodic cleaning to run at peak efficiency. Condenser coils, drain lines, and the blower assembly all accumulate dirt over time. A professional annual system check covers all of this and ensures your unit is ready for the season.
Can you make the air coming from the cooling system colder?
A brand new, properly sized unit is already running as efficiently as possible. For older systems, we can clean the condenser coils, change the filter, and check refrigerant levels. One often-overlooked factor: an AC unit sitting in direct sunlight on a hot day works significantly harder than one in the shade. Simple shading or a protective screen can make a real difference.
Can I replace my window AC units with a central air system?
Yes, it's possible — but if your home has never had central air, the installation cost can be high because ductwork must be added. That said, central air systems are significantly more efficient than multiple window units, and the investment often pays off over time in energy savings and comfort. We're happy to assess your home and give you an honest estimate.
Should I worry about AC theft?
In recent years, AC unit theft has become more common due to the high value of copper in coils and components. If copper theft is an issue in your area, consider protective measures like a security cage around the outdoor unit, good perimeter fencing, and gate locks. Check with your homeowner's insurance as well — many policies cover AC theft with a simple rider.
Do air conditioners harm the environment?
Since the Montreal Protocol in 1987, ozone-depleting CFCs in refrigerants have been steadily phased out and are no longer used in new systems or by licensed technicians. Modern refrigerants are far less harmful. AC units do consume electricity, but efficiency standards have improved dramatically — newer high-SEER units use a fraction of the power that older models did.
