Working as a Heating Professional Can Lead to Success

What Will Happen Before And During An Air Conditioning Repair

31 July 2020

Abbie Wade

Do you have a warm home in the middle of the summer? If your AC system doesn't cool effectively or efficiently, take a look at what you can expect from a professional air conditioning repair service.

Questions and Answers

Before the technician can diagnose your AC system's issue, they need answers. Prepare to provide the HVAC contractor with as much information as possible about your air conditioner and its current problem. Along with questions the technician asks, you may have a few of your own. If you're not sure what to ask before the repair, start with the following:

Will the repair completely fix the problem? Some complex AC issues may have several possible causes. The technician can explain whether the recommended repair is the definite answer or if they may need to start the service before they can determine what's really wrong.

Is a replacement necessary? While a repair is ideal, some AC issues require a full replacement. Make sure a fast fix isn't just a temporary bandage for a serious problem. Repeated repairs may cost you more (over time) than a replacement.

How long will the repair take to complete? Will you need to take an entire day off for the repair, or will the fix take less than an hour? This question is also important if the contractor charges by the hour and not the job.

Is there a warranty? Ask about both parts and labor guarantees or warranties. These can save you money if the AC unit repair fails prematurely.

After you provide the contractor with information about the problem and they answer your top questions, it's time to take the next steps—the inspection and repair.

Inspection and Repairs

The technician should inspect the air conditioner unit, the filter, ducts, the condenser (outdoor part of the air conditioner), and any other problem area. To fully understand the problem and diagnose the issue accurately, the technician may need to:

Go into your home. Whether the problem is with the interior unit or the exterior condenser, the technician will need to enter your home. The HVAC professional will need access to the air conditioner unit, thermostat, and possibly your electrical panel.

Inspect the outdoor area. A frozen condenser coil, refrigerant leak, or mechanical problem could impact the AC unit's ability to effectively cool your home. If the technician suspects a condenser or refrigerant issue, they'll need to inspect the outdoor unit in your yard.

Turn the air conditioner on. The technician will turn down the temperature and wait for the system to start.

The air conditioning repair your system needs depends on what the inspection reveals. A professional HVAC technician should review their findings, discuss the options, and make sure you understand the costs involved before you sign an estimate or contract.

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