FAQ on Air Conditioning: Maintenance and Servicing

​

Being a top-rated air conditioning company in West Berlin, NJ, we service the AC units of hundreds of homeowners in our city and its neighboring cities. Because they are in the field all day long doing emergency air conditioning repair work, our technicians receive many questions from people interested in making their air conditioner work better for them. We decided to put together an FAQ answering many of the questions most often asked. We hope you will find this useful.

 

How often should I service my air conditioner?

​

Short answer:​

We recommend servicing your air conditioner twice a year, preferably in the spring before the peak cooling season begins, and early in the fall before your furnace starts operating. Regular servicing ensures that the system operates efficiently, extends its lifespan, and can prevent costly repairs in the future.

 

Technical answer:​

Servicing your air conditioner twice a year is best practice, ideally during the spring before the summer heat sets in, and at the beginning of the fall when your furnace will start kicking in. From a technical perspective, regular servicing ensures that all components, such as the compressor, evaporator coils, and condenser coils, are functioning optimally.

 

Over time, these components can accumulate dirt, which can reduce the system's efficiency by up to 15%.

 

During our years operating as an air conditioning company in West Berlin, we have seen units that hadn't been serviced for years; cleaning them up made a significant difference in performance. In a particular case, our client reported a 20% reduction in their energy bills after a thorough service.

 

How often should I change or clean the AC filters?

​

Short answer:

You should check your AC filters monthly, especially during heavy use seasons (summer and winter). Depending on the type and usage, you ought to replace or clean your filters every 1-3 months. Clean filters improve air quality, enhance system efficiency, and reduce energy costs.

 

Technical answer:

AC filters ensure an efficient airflow and maintain your indoor air quality. Technically, a clogged filter can impede airflow, forcing the system to work harder, leading to increased wear and tear and higher energy bills. We advise to inspect your filters monthly, especially during summer and winter.

 

Depending on the type, usage, and indoor air quality, you would do well to replace or clean your air filters every 1-3 months. In homes with pets for instance, filters tend to clog faster due to pet dander. All the hair accumulate in the pleats of the filter, making it increasingly difficult for the airflow in the returns to get sucked in.

 

Along the years, we have heard homeowners telling us that after they started to change their filter monthly, the air quality in their home improved so much they had less allergies and felt much better.

Changing your air filters will also enable your unit to work less hard to pull air out of your home, which means lower energy bills and less wear and tear on your system. It’s a small expense that generates good savings.

 

What are the benefits of regular AC maintenance?

​

Short answer:

Regular AC maintenance ensures optimal performance, reduces energy consumption, and extends the lifespan of your AC unit. It also helps detecting potential issues early, and prevents costly repairs and replacements. Regular maintenance helps with indoor air quality by keeping filters and coils clean.

 

Technical answer:

From a technical standpoint, regular AC maintenance is a must for several reasons. It ensures that the system operates at peak efficiency (what is called SEER), reduces energy consumption, and prolongs the lifespan of your AC unit. Did you know that a well-maintained AC can serve your home efficiently for 15 years? By comparison, a neglected unit might need replacement 10 years after it was installed!

 

Regular maintenance enables air conditioning technicians to detect potential issues much earlier: wear and tear is inevitable, but it can be slowed down. Also, excessive wear and tear triggers cascading failures: failing parts increasing the wear and tear of other parts that fail in turn. We can’t count the number of situations when doing a routine check we identified a refrigerant leak in its early stages. These leaks will cause compressors to fail, a very costly repair.

 

Additionally, maintenance ensures better indoor air quality by keeping filters, coils, and ducts clean, reducing the risk of mold and bacteria buildup.

 

How do I clean the coils in my AC unit?

​

Short answer:

This is typically a task for a professional AC technician, not a DIY task. But if you want to do it yourself, you would first turn off the unit. For the outdoor condenser coil, you would remove any debris and gently clean with a coil cleaner, following instructions on the product. Then rinse with a hose.

 

For the indoor evaporator coil, you would access it through the main unit panel, and use a no-rinse coil cleaner. Importantly, ensure good ventilation while using cleaning products and always refer to the product manufacturer's guidelines.

 

Technical answer:

The coils in an AC unit play a central role in the heat exchange process. Over time, both the indoor evaporator coil and the outdoor condenser coil can accumulate dirt and debris, reducing their efficiency. We don’t think cleaning a coil unit yourself is advisable; it is a task better left to a pro. If you damage the condenser coil, you will wind up at best with a less efficient system, and at worst, with the need to replace the coil. And that is unlikely to be covered by your manufacturer’s warranty.

 

Now, if you absolutely want to do it yourself, you would start the cleaning by turning off the unit. For the outdoor condenser coil, you would remove any debris like leaves or twigs both inside and outside the condenser coil, and at the bottom of the AC unit. Then, using a specialized coil cleaner, you would gently clean the coils, making sure you don’t bend the metal of the coil. Rinse it off with a hose.

 

Avoid pressure washers, they will push too much pressure on the metal. Then access your indoor evaporator coil through the main unit panel. Use a no-rinse coil cleaner. Only apply this product with enough ventilation (like blowing a fan with open windows).

 

Dirty condenser coils prevent your AC from operating at optimum efficiency as the coat of dirt and debris over the coil decreases the efficiency of the heat transfer process. Cleaning coils improves efficiency, and reduces energy bills. But this is a delicate operation that is better done by a pro.

 

How can I prevent mold growth in my AC?

​

Short answer:

To prevent mold growth, ensure proper drainage of the condensate pan, regularly clean or replace filters, and use a UV light system if recommended. Keeping humidity levels in your home between 30-50% and regularly inspecting ducts and vents for moisture or mold signs can also help.

 

Technical answer:

Mold growth in AC units is a common issue in rainy areas like NJ. Technically speaking, mold thrives in moist environments. The condensate pan is a risk area because it is always wet. AC professional air conditioning technicians we always inspect your condensate pan to clean it up and to ensure it drains water properly.

 

If airflow is not strong enough, you will wind up with moisture build-up in your ducts: that’s another reason to clean or replace your filters regularly. Some modern AC systems come with UV light sub-systems that kill mold spores and bacteria. Installed in the returns, these systems are a good counter-measure for mold and allergies.

 

Some studies have shown that mold growth leads to respiratory issues. We highly recommend homeowners to get a pro to conduct regular inspections of ducts and vents for signs of moisture or mold. Lastly, using dehumidifiers may help. Keep the humidity in your home at between 30-50%.

 

How often should I check the refrigerant levels?

​

Short answer:

Your AC service technician will check your refrigerant levels twice a year. Refrigerant levels must be kept within the manufacturer’s recommended range to allow your AC unit to regular your home temperature efficiently. Too much or too little refrigerant reduces system efficiency, increases energy costs, and will potentially damage your system.

 

Technical answer:

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. It commands the heat exchange process that cools your home. Technically speaking, an AC system is a closed loop: it shouldn't lose refrigerant. It only loses refrigerant when there is a leak.

​

Your AC technician systematically checks your refrigerant levels during your regular AC service, and we recommend this to happen twice a year. Too much or too little refrigerant in a system reduces efficiency, increases energy costs, and will end up damaging the system.

 

For instance, a system with low refrigerant might ice up, leading to potential compressor damage. In our experience, the early detection of refrigerant leaks saved many homeowners from costly repairs, and ensured consistent cooling performance.

​

Air Conditioning: Performance and Troubleshooting​

 

Why is my air conditioner not cooling properly?

 

Short Answer:​

There are several reasons why your air conditioner might not be cooling properly. Amongst them, some of the most common are dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, and a malfunctioning thermostat. Check your filters regularly and replace or clean them as needed. If the problem persists, it is best to consult with a professional AC technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

 

Technical Answer:​

When an air conditioning unit does not cool off properly, we systematically suspect 3 potential issues:

​

(1) The air filters are clogged and the airflow is restricted. The system has to work harder to circulate the same volume of air;

(2) A system may be low in refrigerant due to leaks in the refrigerant lines. This problem typically occurs at the fittings and connectors, but it can also be the result of a puncture in the copper lines;

(3) The evaporator and condenser coils are dirty, and the dirt impedes the cooling process.

 

These are not all the reasons: a malfunctioning thermostat, electrical issues, or a compromised compressor can also be culprits. Each part of the system needs to be diagnosed to detect abnormalities and excessive wear and tear. Regular maintenance and timely interventions will tend to prevent these issues and ensure consistent cooling performance.

 

Why is my AC blowing warm air?

 

Short Answer:​

If your AC is blowing warm air, you could be facing a tripped circuit breaker, low refrigerant levels, or a dirty evaporator coil. You could start your diagnostic by setting the thermostat to "cool" and checking the circuit breaker. If the issue persists, seek the assistance of a professional AC technician.

 

Technical Answer:​

An AC blowing warm air can be due to multiple technical issues. The easiest to address is the tripped circuit breaker: set your thermostat to "cool" and the temperature below your current room temperature. If the unit doesn’t start quickly, check your electrical panel for a tripped circuit breaker.

You can also check your filters and the return vents. Dirty filters, or blocked return vents will prevent air from circulating normally and your AC won’t cool off your home normally.

 

As mentioned elsewhere in this FAQ, the issue could be related to low refrigerant levels. That’s not a repair you can do yourself without risks, even if you have the gauge to measure the pressure in the system. When there is a leak in the line, only a professional AC technician will know how to fix it properly. Don’t try to fix this yourself.

 

Another cause hindering the cooling process is a dirty or frozen evap coil. Again, this is one type of failure point that calls for a professional intervention.As best practice, we recommending getting your AC inspected twice a year (spring and fall) to prevent these issues. If the issue occurs, don’t delay calling an AC technician: the longer your AC has to work with the root cause of the issue, the more likely it will experience a catastrophic failure.

​

Why is my AC constantly running?

 

Short Answer:​

If your AC is constantly running, it might be undersized for the space it is cooling at the current temperature levels. It may also have a thermostat issue. Dirty coils or clogged filters may be reducing its efficiency. If you see no improvement after adjusting your thermostat, consult a professional technician.

 

Technical Answer:​

An AC that is continuously running can be an indication of several technical inefficiencies. One of the more common ones during a hot summer is the unit is undersized for the volume of air it tries to cool off. The unit may be operating normally during the rest of the year, or even in regular summers.

 

But during a heat wave like we have seen in recent years in New Jersey, the same unit just struggles to cool off the volume of air in your home because the temperature outside is too warm and your insulation not efficient enough.

​

Another relatively simple issue may be a thermostat malfunction: old thermostats, especially mercury-based models, can cause your system to run continuously. Diving deeper in the diagnosis, we would examine the state of your condenser and evaporator coils, and the level of refrigerant in the lines looking for potential leaks as applicable.

 

Why is my AC freezing up?

 

Short Answer:​

Your AC might freeze up due to restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Check the filters and replace them if dirty. If the problem persists, it is best to contact a professional AC technician.

 

Technical Answer:​

There are several technical factors at the root of an AC unit freezing up. Restricted airflow, often due to a dirty filter or blocked return vents, can cause the evap coil to freeze.Low refrigerant levels, typically resulting from leaks, will reduce the pressure in the system, leading to freezing. A malfunctioning blower motor does not allow the air to circulate effectively, causing the coils to freeze.

 

Typically, homeowners don’t know that the coils of the system are frozen. When a professional AC technician detects that this is the origin of the problem, they will address it immediately because it could lead to compressor damage, a very costly repair.

 

Why is my AC turning on and off frequently?

 

Short Answer:​​

If your AC is turning on and off frequently, it might be "short cycling." This can be due to an oversized unit, a dirty evaporator coil, or some electrical issues. Address this promptly by calling a professional AC repair technician, as the situation will increase wear and tear on the system.

 

Technical Answer:​

"Short cycling" is a technical term used to designate a situation when an AC turns on and off frequently. This can be due to several reasons. An oversized AC unit, for instance, will cool down a home quickly and then shut off, only to restart shortly after. A dirty evaporator coil or a clogged filter will cause an AC unit to overheat and shut down prematurely.

 

Electrical issues (faulty relays or capacitors) can also lead to short cycling. Sometimes, the thermostat sensor is bad, and gives false temperature indications to the system. Short cycling will increase wear and tear, because the spike of current that occurs when the unit fires up will progressively deteriorate the electronics and reduce the lifespan of the system.

 

Newer AC system will have variable speed motors, which stay “on” all the time but slow down when ideal temperature is reached. They don’t start-and-stop like the other motors.

 

Why is my thermostat not reaching the set temperature?

 

Short Answer:​

If your thermostat isn't reaching the set temperature, it could be due to an incorrect calibration, a malfunctioning sensor, or issues with the AC unit itself. All these issues must be looked at by a professional.

 

Technical Answer:​

A thermostat not reaching the set temperature can be a complex issue with various technical underpinnings. Incorrect calibration can cause discrepancies between the set temperature and the actual room temperature. Malfunctioning sensors can relay incorrect temperatures, causing the system to underperform.

 

The location of the thermostat also plays a role: if placed near heat sources or in direct sunlight, it would typically register higher temperatures. In one case, we found that a thermostat had been relocated to close to a kitchen stove, causing it to read abnormally high temperatures. Repositioning the thermostat elsewhere solved the issue. It is also possible that the AC unit itself is undersized or has some malfunction and can’t achieve the desired temperature.

 

Why is there ice on my AC unit?

 

Short Answer:​

Ice on your AC unit can result from restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Ensure the filters are clean and the vents are unblocked. If the icing continues, consult an AC repair technician.

 

Technical Answer:​

Technically, ice formation on an AC unit is indicative of operational inefficiencies. Restricted airflow, often due to dirty filters or blocked vents, can cause the evaporator coil temperature to drop below freezing, leading to ice formation. Low refrigerant levels, typically due to leaks, can cause the coil to freeze. A malfunctioning blower motor would not circulate air effectively, leading to freezing.

 

Along our service history, we found more than once that the AC units had a kinked refrigerant line: this caused reduced flow and subsequent freezing. Rectifying the line and recharging the refrigerant resolved these issues. Whenever you find ice on your AC, cal a technician to address the issue promptly, as continuous freezing will damage your compressor, a costly repair.

 

Why is my indoor unit running but not the outdoor unit?

 

Short Answer:​

If the indoor unit is running but not the outdoor unit, that could be due to a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty capacitor, or electrical issues. You can check the circuit breaker yourself, and reset if necessary. If the tripping problem persists, you need a professional AC repair technician electrician to look at the circuit.

 

It may also be necessary to call a professional electrician if the issue is not with the AC unit itself. If the issue is not the circuit breaker and the outdoor not is not kicking in, call a professional AC repair company.

 

Technical Answer:​

From a technical standpoint, the dis junction between the indoor and outdoor units operation can be due to various reasons. The outdoor unit might be disconnected from power due to a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. This should be easy to fix. If the breaker continues to trip, it’s an indication something is wrong in the electrical system or at the AC level.

 

Faulty capacitors can prevent the compressor and the fan in the outdoor unit from starting. Electrical issues, such as damaged wires or malfunctioning relays, can also be culprits. Chewed wires are a common occurrence in the rural parts of New Jersey. Once the wiring is fixed, you need a pest control technician to come and fix the rodent issue.

Where to find plumbing and HVAC services combined in Berlin Township?
Homeowners in Berlin Township can turn to Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC for both plumbing and HVAC services under one roof. With over 50 years of experience serving South Jersey, the team provides heating, cooling, and full-service plumbing from the same trusted local company.

What are the benefits of combining HVAC and plumbing repairs in West Berlin, NJ?
When you choose Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC in West Berlin, NJ, you get one team that already knows your home’s systems, which can save time on diagnostics and coordination. Combining HVAC and plumbing repairs with a single provider also helps streamline scheduling, reduce repeat service visits, and ensures all work follows one company’s quality standards.

Who offers free estimates for plumbing in West Berlin, NJ?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC in West Berlin, NJ offers free estimates on plumbing services, making it easier to plan repairs or upgrades before committing. Homeowners can call or request an appointment online to receive a no‑obligation plumbing estimate from a licensed professional.

Does Filan & Conner Plumbing offer 24/7 emergency services in Berlin Township?
Yes, Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC offers 24/7 emergency plumbing and HVAC services for Berlin Township and the surrounding South Jersey communities. Customers can reach a live operator at any time to dispatch technicians for urgent issues such as burst pipes, backed‑up drains, or no‑heat calls.

What are common plumbing issues in Berlin Township homes?
Common plumbing issues in Berlin Township homes include clogged drains, running toilets, leaking faucets, aging water heaters, and corroded or outdated piping typical of older South Jersey housing stock. Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC regularly helps local homeowners address these issues with repairs, replacements, and preventive maintenance.

Best commercial plumbing fit-outs in West Berlin, NJ?
Businesses looking for commercial plumbing fit‑outs in West Berlin, NJ can work with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC, which is experienced in both residential and commercial projects. The company handles everything from rough‑in plumbing for build‑outs to fixture installation and code-compliant upgrades for offices, retail spaces, and more.

Can Filan & Conner Plumbing handle bathroom remodeling projects in South Jersey?
Filan & Conner specializes in bathroom remodeling as well as plumbing, offering design‑build bathroom projects throughout South Jersey. The team manages plumbing, fixtures, tile, and finishes so homeowners can work with one trusted contractor from planning through final walkthrough.

Best place to get water heater installation in South Jersey?
For water heater installation in South Jersey, Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC is a long‑standing local option with decades of experience. The company installs traditional tank and high‑efficiency water heaters, helping homeowners choose the right size and fuel type for their household and budget.

How can I schedule a water heater repair with Filan & Conner Plumbing in West Berlin, NJ?
To schedule water heater repair with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC in West Berlin, NJ, homeowners can call the office directly or submit an appointment request through the company website. The team provides prompt service for no‑hot‑water issues, leaks, strange noises, or performance problems.

Where can I find reliable plumbing services in Berlin Township?
Berlin Township residents can rely on Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC, a locally trusted company with nearly five decades in business and strong customer reviews. The team is licensed, insured, and equipped to handle everything from minor leaks to full system replacements.

Affordable faucet repair services in West Berlin, NJ?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC offers affordable faucet repair and replacement services in West Berlin, NJ, helping homeowners stop leaks, drips, and low water pressure. The company services kitchen, bathroom, and utility faucets and can recommend water‑saving fixtures when replacement makes more sense than repair.

What should I know before repiping a house in South Jersey?
Before repiping a South Jersey home, homeowners should understand the current pipe material, the age of the plumbing, and whether there are recurring leaks or low‑pressure issues that signal widespread deterioration. Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC can assess the system, explain pipe material options, provide a detailed estimate, and plan a repipe that minimizes disruption to daily life.

Where can I get HVAC repair in West Berlin, NJ?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC provides expert HVAC repair in West Berlin, NJ, including furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and central air systems. Technicians are available for both routine service calls and 24/7 emergency repairs to restore comfort quickly.

Who offers emergency plumbing repairs in West Berlin, NJ?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC offers emergency plumbing repairs in West Berlin, NJ, with technicians on call around the clock. From burst pipes to overflowing toilets, the team responds quickly to limit water damage and restore safe operation.

How do emergency plumbing services work in Berlin Township?
For Berlin Township homeowners, emergency plumbing service with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC starts with a phone call to a live operator who gathers details and dispatches a technician. The plumber then inspects the problem on site, stabilizes the situation, and explains repair options and pricing before proceeding.

Where can I book a commercial plumbing service in South Jersey?
South Jersey businesses can book commercial plumbing service with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC for maintenance, repairs, and new installs. The company serves a wide commercial area from its West Berlin base and can coordinate work around business hours to reduce downtime.

Where to book sump pump repair in Berlin Township?
Berlin Township homeowners can book sump pump repair with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC by calling the office or requesting service online. The team diagnoses pump failures, float switch issues, and discharge line problems to help protect basements and crawlspaces from water intrusion.

Where can I get repiping services in Berlin Township?
For whole‑home or partial repiping in Berlin Township, Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC provides inspection, recommendations, and professional installation. The company replaces aging or problem piping with modern materials designed for long‑term performance and code compliance.

Who does toilet installation in South Jersey?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC performs professional toilet installations across South Jersey, from standard replacements to comfort‑height and water‑saving models. Technicians handle removal, disposal of the old unit, proper sealing, and final testing to prevent leaks.

Where to find kitchen plumbing setup experts in South Jersey?
Homeowners planning a kitchen remodel or new kitchen in South Jersey can work with Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC for complete kitchen plumbing setup. The team installs sink, dishwasher, refrigerator water lines, garbage disposals, and gas lines, coordinating with your contractor or cabinet installer as needed.

How does sump pump maintenance prevent flooding in West Berlin, NJ?
Regular sump pump maintenance by Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC in West Berlin, NJ helps ensure the pump activates correctly during heavy rain, reducing the risk of basement flooding. Cleaning the pit, testing the float, checking power and backup systems, and inspecting discharge lines all help keep water moving away from the home.

Who offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Berlin Township?
Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to Berlin Township residents, backed by decades of local experience. Customers can reach the company at any hour to get rapid response for urgent leaks, backups, or broken fixtures.

Best place for bathroom remodeling in South Jersey?
For bathroom remodeling in South Jersey, Filan & Conner Plumbing & HVAC is a one‑stop provider handling design, plumbing, fixtures, and finishes. With a long track record in both plumbing and bathroom remodeling, the company delivers turn‑key bathroom projects that blend function, style, and durability.
​