How to prepare for the day without Air Conditioning.
We get it. The Air is out, and you are dying of heat! There is almost nothing worse than needing an Air Conditioning repair. (a bit dramatic, but you get the point). Don’t panic; that will only raise your body temperature. Pour a cold glass of lemonade and call the AC repair professionals.
Here is what you can expect when booking an AC repair service.
Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioning?
First, do you need a simple AC repair or an entire HVAC replacement? After the technician has determined the cause of the problem and gives you the diagnosis, you can ask yourself that question. Here are the general guidelines.
- If the AC unit is more than ten years old and the cost to repair will be 50% or more of a new AC, you probably need a new system.
- If the AC unit is more than ten years old and the repair will be over $5,000, get the quote for a replacement. It is most likely the best choice.
- If the AC unit is less than ten years old, seriously consider the condition of the system as well as the cost to replace or repair. Have you been taking care of it, or a previous owner, perhaps?
Before the Technicians Arrive.
Speeding up the AC repair process is in your best interest, and the techs’. After all, you want that repair done as soon as humanly possible. Take the time to move valuable furniture from around the area they will be working. They will appreciate your effort. If you can trim away any vine and weed growth from the condenser, that is a great help. Finally, if you have pets, be sure they are put away safely, not to stress them out either.
Now you are ready for the truck to pull up.
Day of Replacement Installation:
If you have chosen to replace your AC system with a new one, here are some things you should know. You have prepped the area for the techs to come in ad get their job done. Expect 2 or 3 installers to arrive ready to work. They know you are in a hurry to get the repair done, and an early day for them would be okay, too.
If repairing, you may only need one tech, and it will be done that day, barring any unforeseen problems creeping up.
Okay… here is the bad news. If it is raining, most companies will need to reschedule the appointment. At least it is overcast outside! On with better news.
A typical replacement takes about one full day. If there is much additional work like duct replacement or run into unforeseen problems, it may take two, but not usually.
The first thing your installers will do is prep the area. They will put down protective coverings for the floors and clear the area they will need. Then they will access the attic and the outdoor condenser and prep those areas if necessary. Once they unload and unbox the equipment, they will begin the replacement.
One out, One In:
After the crew turns off the power to the air conditioning unit, they can begin by removing the damaged parts to be replaced or repaired. The installers will remove the old equipment and dispose of it, then start with the new.
If your unit needs new duct work, the crew will do that next. The team will likely replace the thermostat, drain lines, supply lines, and pump. Then the more substantial parts will be added to the new system. This part will keep the crew busy for quite a while.
Whether an AC repair or a replacement, there can always be things that come up, existing before they dug into the work. These are unfortunate because these unforeseen problems take time, and you are ready to get this done. Rest assured, your technician will assess the situation and take care of it right away. They will prepare for almost any issue that might pop up. Such matters include wire corrosion, wall studs that are rotting, drywall repairs, and electrical work. Those things are not usually included in the quote but cannot wait. Trust the crew to take care of the situation.
The new Air Conditioning system is in, now what?
When they look finished, they aren’t! There is still one crucial step to get through before they hand over the paperwork to be signed.
Before the installers can charge your system with refrigerant, they must test the pressure. Once given the okay on all of the working parts, the system will be activated.
At that point, the lead tech will check the system to ensure it is running and cooling properly. That will take a minute, as the crew wants to be sure it will cool adequately. You want that!
Finally, the lead will go over the system, be sure you know how to operate the new thermostat and go over the paperwork and warranty information with you. Once you are fully satisfied, you can sign the papers, thank the crew, and show them the door!
Conclusion:
Are you comfortable with the AC repair process now?
Know what to expect from an AC repair or replacement?
Ready to make that call to get it fixed once and for all?
Need a refill on that lemonade?
Let the experts at Veterans AC & Heat take care of you and your air conditioning system. Call to book your appointment today!
