Author: Matt Postoian

Victorville, CA, and the surrounding areas are part of California’s High Desert Region, so you need a reliable air conditioner to keep you comfortable and cool. If you need a brand-new AC installation, June is a perfect time to get it done. The experts at AC Plus Heating and Cooling have some tips and information about why this time of year is ideal to beat the peak summer heat and enjoy reliable air conditioning when summer temperatures skyrocket.

Why Timing Matters for AC Installation

Timing is crucial when preparing for hot weather and scheduling AC installation. Here’s why the timing matters and why it’s so vital to schedule your installation early.

Cost and Availability

Most HVAC companies get extremely busy once summer reaches its peak. Whether they’re performing repairs or giving estimates for new systems, summertime is always the busy season. This could lead to higher labor costs and longer wait times to get an appointment for your new AC system. Scheduling your installation in June is the best way to make sure you receive your new air conditioner early and that prices are lower.

Optimizes Performance

If you install your new AC when temperatures are still relatively mild, you have more time to adjust the system as needed. Early scheduling is part of smart summer AC preparation because it gives you time to make sure the system performs optimally before the peak of summer arrives.

Saves Money

Scheduling your new air conditioning replacement in June saves you money over the long term. When you upgrade and replace your old system early, you’ll prevent the possibility of paying for a costly breakdown later. Plus, newer systems are much more energy-efficient, so the earlier you install one, the more you’ll save on monthly energy costs over time. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you have a reliable, consistent system that keeps your home comfortable throughout the summer.

Benefits of Installing a New AC System Before Summer Heat

Here are some benefits when it comes to choosing your new HVAC installation timing before the summer heat:

• Fewer delays: As temperatures increase, so does the demand for new air conditioners, and scheduling your installation early means you won’t have to deal with frustrating delays.

• Prevents breakdowns: Getting a new system before summer means you won’t have to worry about paying for costly breakdowns right when summer temperatures peak.

• Better indoor air quality: Today’s energy-efficient air conditioners have improved filtration systems, providing cleaner and healthier indoor air you’ll enjoy all summer.

• Lower energy bills: The sooner you schedule your new AC installation, the lower your energy bills will be, thanks to the higher SEER ratings and better overall efficiency and performance of today’s newer models.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC Unit

If your air conditioner has problems, it’s important to know when to install a new AC. Look for these signs that may indicate it’s time to replace your AC unit:

Older System

The average lifespan of an air conditioner or AC system varies, but most last between 10 and 15 years with average use. If your current AC is 10 years old or older, scheduling a replacement could be a great idea.

High Energy Bills

If your monthly bills are suddenly much higher than usual without a change in AC usage, your air conditioner could be to blame. Higher bills are often due to a loss in your AC’s energy efficiency, and replacing the unit might be the best way to keep those bills lower throughout the summer.

Leaks or Overheating

Never ignore water leaks coming from your AC unit. They usually mean something much more serious is occurring behind the scenes. If your AC is overheating or producing warm instead of cool air, this is another red flag that you should consider an upgrade. From leaking refrigerant to compressor issues, it might cost you less to replace the unit rather than repair it, depending on the severity and complexity of the problem.

What To Look for in an Energy-Efficient AC System

The team at AC Plus is happy to help you choose the best AC system for your needs. Here’s what to look for when selecting the most energy-efficient AC system:

• Systems with high SEER ratings are optimized for maximum energy efficiency to help you save money on cooling costs.
• Look for a new AC system with the official Energy Star Certified logo, since these units meet strict efficiency standards.
• Consider installing a ductless mini-split system for zoned cooling and maximum energy savings.
• Choose a system with smart features, like a Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostat, so you can control and program it to help you save.
• Hire the experienced team at AC Plus to install your new AC system. We always ensure that you receive the correct-sized unit for your home, which also helps to maximize energy efficiency and performance.

Why Work With a Professional HVAC Team in June

There are plenty of reasons to work with a professional HVAC team for your next AC installation in June.

• Quality installation: HVAC professionals know how to install the latest technology and have the experience and skills necessary to make sure you select the appropriate size and type of AC for your home and needs.

• Fast service: When you schedule your AC installation in June, demand is slightly lower, so you’ll get prompt service and lower prices without excess delays.

• Safety: Experienced HVAC technicians know how to install new AC units safely, including how to handle refrigerant properly, how to work with electrical components, and how to make sure that your new system is operating safely in general.

• Reliability: Choosing to work with professionals to install your new AC in June helps extend your system’s lifespan and provides you with reliable, constant cooling you’ll enjoy all summer.

Contact AC Plus: Your Trusted Partner for Summer Comfort Today!

If you live in Victorville, Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, or the surrounding areas, count on AC Plus as your trusted partner for summer comfort. Schedule an AC installation with us before peak summer heat to ensure comfort, energy savings, and reliable performance. If you’re ready for a new AC system and want to schedule with AC Plus before the summer heat hits, contact us today!

What happens if you don’t keep up with AC coil cleaning? Explore the possible effects of faulty AC coils, how these components function in your air conditioner, and how to identify a defective or dirty AC coil. Also, learn some maintenance tips to help keep your system running smoothly with reliable air conditioner services from the team at AC Plus.

Understanding AC Coils and Their Role

Before breaking down the signs of a failing AC coil, it’s important to understand how this component works in your air conditioner. AC coils (which can refer to outdoor condenser coils or indoor evaporator/evap coils) play an instrumental role in the cooling process.

AC coils are made of copper tubes that fill with refrigerant throughout the air conditioning cycle. The refrigerant inside the coil absorbs heat from the surrounding air, cooling it before it’s cycled back into your home. During this process, the coils also accumulate moisture, which condenses on the coil surface and eventually drips into your AC’s drain pan.

From here, the warm refrigerant is circulated back to the outdoor condenser, and the heat is dispersed outside. Once the refrigerant is cold again, it flows back to your evaporator coils to repeat the process.

Signs of Dirty or Faulty AC Coils

Several common signs may indicate dirty or faulty AC coils. If you notice any of the following issues, there’s a good chance that your evaporator coils are to blame:

• Reduced cooling effectiveness: If your AC is running but not cooling properly, it could be a sign that your AC coils aren’t able to absorb heat effectively due to damage or dirt accumulation.

• Increasing energy bills: Dirty or damaged coils make your AC less energy-efficient. Like most types of AC maintenance, coil cleaning and tune-ups can help improve the efficiency of your air conditioner.

• Unusual sounds: Hissing and banging noises from your AC often indicate a coil with a refrigerant leak or a misaligned component interfering with the rest of the system.

• AC continuously turning on and off: If your AC coils can’t absorb enough heat to get your space to the temperature set on your thermostat, it will cause the system to continuously short-cycle.

• Frozen coils: If you notice ice accumulating on your coils, it’s a sure sign that the refrigerant within can’t absorb heat efficiently.

• Refrigerant leaks: This symptom can be harder to spot (except in extreme cases where leaking refrigerant pools around the unit), but it’s a clear sign of a coil problem. Look out for hissing noises, diminished cooling ability, and frost build-up on your evaporator coils.

How Faulty Coils Affect AC Performance

You wouldn’t continue to drive your car on a flat tire, and the same goes for running an air conditioner with faulty coils. These simple components are important for air conditioning efficiency and effectiveness, and even a small issue can have a big impact on the unit’s overall performance.

One concern with faulty coils is energy efficiency. When coils are dirty or damaged, your system can’t cool the air as effectively, forcing it to run longer and harder to achieve the same result. This means steadily increasing energy bills until you get the required AC repair services.

Faulty coils also affect the HVAC system. If your AC is struggling to cool the air efficiently, more strain is put on every other component in the system. You may need to repair and replace parts sooner than you would otherwise, and it also reduces the overall service life of your system.

There are also AC performance issuesto consider. It’s frustrating when your air conditioner can’t do its job, leaving you to deal with an uncomfortably warm home until you get the AC solutions you need.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent AC Coil Issues

How can California homeowners avoid AC coil issues in the first place? Try these helpful preventative maintenance tips.

Have AC Coils Cleaned Regularly

Your evaporator coils should be regularly cleaned to improve AC performance and efficiency. Exactly how often depends on your system’s filtration, how often you run your AC, and the average dust and debris levels in the air outside. We recommend cleaning the coils at least once a year.

Change Air Filters Regularly

Keeping up with the AC filter best practices helps prevent your coils from becoming dirty so quickly. Depending on your system, filter type, and usage, filters should be changed every three to 12 months.

Keep the Condenser Unit Clean

Debris buildup or placing items on top of your AC condenser unit can affect the coils and overall performance. Regularly clean this component and keep junk, furniture, and other objects away from the unit.

Why Timely AC Coil Cleaning Matters

Having your air conditioner coils cleaned is one of the best ways to make the most of your home cooling system. Get this important service in the spring (before you’re running the unit constantly in the summer) to protect your air conditioner from breakdowns and poor efficiency. Coil cleaning helps extend the system’s lifespan, boosts performance, and provides invaluable peace of mind during the hot California summers.

Stay Comfortable Year-Round with AC Plus

When it comes to home HVAC systems, the details can make all the difference. AC coil cleaning might not come to mind when you think of essential maintenance tasks, but even a minor issue with this component can have major impacts on your comfort. If you’re looking to get your AC running at max efficiency before the warm weather sets in, the team at AC Plus is here to help San Bernardino County homeowners. Contact us today to schedule AC coil cleaning and a full system spring tune-up.

As the temperatures rise and you rely more on your air conditioning, it’s nice to have a system that’s running efficiently. Regular AC maintenance with coil cleaning can help improve system performance. Dirty AC coils may seem like a minor issue, but they significantly impact your air conditioner’s performance, efficiency, and lifespan. If you’re wondering how AC coil cleaning affects your system and your energy bills, read on to get the details.

Understanding AC Coils and Their Role

Air conditioning systems regulate temperature using two main types of coils: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil.

Evaporator coils are located inside your home, typically near the air handler. They absorb heat from the indoor air. As warm air passes over the coil, the refrigerant inside absorbs the heat, cooling the air before it circulates back into your living space.

Condenser coils are found in the outdoor unit. They release the heat absorbed from inside your home to the outside air. The refrigerant flows through this coil, expelling the collected heat so it can cool again and repeat the cycle.

Both coils must be clean and free of debris to function correctly. Dirt, dust, and grime eventually build up on the coils, creating a barrier that restricts airflow and heat transfer. That means your system has to work harder to cool your home, which leads to AC performance issues and several costly problems.

Signs of Dirty AC Coils

So, how can you tell if your AC coils are dirty? Here are some common signs homeowners should look out for:

• Reduced cooling performance: If your system isn’t cooling as effectively as it used to, dirty coils could be the culprit.
• Longer cooling cycles: When coils are coated in dirt or grime, your AC runs longer to reach the desired temperature.
• Increased energy bills: A struggling system uses more power to achieve the same cooling results.
• Frost on the coils: The evaporator coil can become so cold that moisture freezes on it, especially when dirt restricts airflow.
• Warm air from vents: If the condenser coil can’t properly release heat, the whole system becomes inefficient, and you may notice warmer air coming from your vents.
• System overheating or short cycling: When the unit runs inefficiently due to dirty coils, it may overheat and shut off abruptly, a condition known as short cycling.

These symptoms may not always appear all at once, but even one or two can signal that your coils need attention.

Impact of Dirty Coils on System Efficiency

Dirty coils significantly reduce the air conditioning efficiency. Here’s how:

• Increased energy consumption: When the coils are dirty, your AC unit has to work harder to achieve the same level of cooling. This increased strain leads to higher energy use and, consequently, higher utility bills.
• Reduced system lifespan: An overworked system is more likely to break down and require costly repairs or premature replacement.
• Poor indoor comfort: Dirty coils can make it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. Some rooms may feel warmer than others, and humidity control may also suffer.
• Frozen coils and system damage: Excessive dirt buildup, especially on the evaporator coils, can cause them to freeze. This ice buildup restricts airflow further and, if left unaddressed, may damage the compressor.

Neglecting coil maintenance doesn’t just affect your comfort — it can lead to mechanical issues or complete system failure, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to fix.

How do Dirty AC Coils Lead to Higher Energy Bills?

One of the most immediate and noticeable impacts of dirty coils is an increase in energy bills. When the system has to work harder to cool your home due to restricted airflow or impaired heat exchange, it consumes more electricity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dirty condenser coils can increase energy consumption by up to 30% — a substantial rise in cost throughout a hot summer.

If your utility bills have been creeping up without a clear reason, it could be time to check your coils.

Maintenance Tips for Clean AC Coils

Regular AC maintenance is key to keeping your air conditioning system running smoothly. Here are some coil-cleaning and maintenance tips every homeowner should follow:

• Schedule annual tune-ups: The best way to ensure your coils stay clean and your system is in peak condition is to schedule professional maintenance every spring before the summer heat arrives.
• Keep the outdoor unit clear: For your condenser coil to function effectively, keep the area around the outdoor unit free from grass, weeds, leaves, and debris. Trim back plants or bushes to allow at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Change air filters regularly: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing dirt to accumulate on the evaporator coil. Check your filter every 1 to 3 months and replace it as needed.
• Use coil cleaners: While it’s generally best to leave coil cleaning to the professionals, foaming coil cleaners are available for homeowners who are comfortable with light maintenance.
• Monitor performance: Pay attention to signs of poor cooling, odd noises, or rising energy bills. These can all be early warnings that maintenance is overdue.

So, how often should AC coil cleaning be performed? Most systems benefit from professional cleaning once per year, typically in the spring. In areas with high pollen, dust, or pet dander, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.

Call AC Plus Heating & Air

Don’t wait until your AC system struggles during a heatwave. A simple spring tune-up can make all the difference for your home cooling solutions. At AC Plus, our professional technicians are ready to clean your coils, inspect your system, and ensure everything is running at peak performance.

Call today to schedule your spring AC tune-up and enjoy peace of mind knowing your air conditioner is ready to keep your home cool, comfortable, and efficient all summer long.

After months of disuse, your air conditioner may not be prepared for the California summer heat and your home’s cooling needs. Aspring AC tune-up with AC Plus prepares your system for the season ahead — learn why you should schedule AC maintenance in the springto enjoy optimal energy efficiency and dependable cooling comfort.

Why Regular AC Maintenance Matters

Your air conditioning system works hard to regulate temperatures and maintain a comfortable home. Preventative AC maintenance directly influences your AC’s immediate and long-term performance by addressing wear accumulated from regular operation.

Prevents Performance Decline

ACs gradually collect dirt, dust, and other debris that can limit performance. For example, dirt on the evaporator coil impedes the heat transfer process and reduces cooling power. Likewise, clogged filters restrict airflow and strain your system. Proactive maintenance addresses these issues to enable consistent performance throughout the summer.

Avoids Costly Repairs and Early Replacement

Minor problems may evolve into significant and costly repairs if neglected. Refrigerant leaks, clogged condensate lines, loose electrical connections, and other problems place additional stress on your AC, and prolonged strain may permanently damage your system and result in premature failure. AC maintenance detects and corrects these underlying problems before they can escalate.

Maintains Reliable Comfort

A neglected system is more likely to struggle and break down under peak demand in the summer. Regularly scheduled tune-ups minimize the risk of breakdown and maintain reliability by identifying and addressing potential problems early.

What’s Included in a Professional AC Tune-Up?

AC maintenance involves detailed inspections and adjustments to facilitate efficient and reliable performance. A professional AC tune-up checklist includes:

• Calibrating your thermostat for accurate temperature control.
• Cleaning evaporator coils for optimal heat transfer.
• Replacing air filters to enhance airflow and indoor air quality.
• Lubricating bearings and other moving parts to minimize friction and wear.
• Tightening electrical connections to prevent malfunctions.
• Assessing ductwork for blockages or leaks impacting airflow.
• Inspecting and testing the condenser unit.
• Testing sensors, capacitors, and other components for proper operation.

Why Spring Is the Best Time for an AC Tune-Up

An AC tune-up in the spring is an important part of readying your home for the summer heat. ACs are generally unused during the winter, and underlying problems may go unnoticed until you need your AC again. Identifying and addressing these issues proactively prepares your system to handle the upcoming summer and peak cooling demand.

How Often Should You Schedule AC Maintenance?

How often you should get an AC tune-updepends on several factors, including system usage and age, local climate, and air quality concerns. In general, homeowners should schedule tune-ups annually, ideally in the spring before the cooling season.

Annual tune-ups are sufficient for more systems, but certain situations may warrant more frequent maintenance. If your AC is older, heavily used, or subject to excessive dust or pet hair, inspections in both the spring and fall may help your system achieve peak performance.

Try these strategies between professional maintenance visits to keep your AC running at its best:

• Replace air filters every 30 to 90 days.
• Periodically clean the outdoor unit of leaves, branches, and other debris.
• Keep vents open and clear of obstructions.
• Use a programmable thermostat to avoid unnecessary AC strain.

Signs Your AC System Needs a Tune-Up

Even if your cooling hasn’t broken down, performance issues maysignal AC maintenance needs. Schedule a maintenance service if you notice these signs:

• Weak or inconsistent airflow
• Warm air from vents
• High energy bills
• Frequent cycling
• Strange sounds
• Unpleasant odors
• High indoor humidity

The Benefits of Preventative AC Maintenance

Investing in preventative AC maintenance offers several advantages beyond preventing breakdowns, translating to long-term cost savings and better home comfort.

Lower Energy Bills

A well-maintained system provides better cooling with less strain, translating to improved AC efficiency. By cleaning components and verifying correct function, maintenance enables lower energy consumption and reduced energy bills over time.

Fewer Repairs

During an AC tune-up, your HVAC technician detects problems that may otherwise go unseen, such as refrigerant leaks, worn components, or loose electrical connections, and prevents them from escalating to breakdowns and repairs. Without routine upkeep, minor wear may become serious damage, resulting in costly part replacements or even system failure.

Extended System Lifespan

When dirty or worn-out parts go unchecked, the resulting inefficiencies and breakdowns may shorten your AC’s lifespan. Between addressing regular wear and preventing permanent damage from breakdowns, professional maintenance likewise slows your AC system’s aging. A well-maintained AC can last several years longer than a neglected unit, minimizing the risk of premature replacement and lowering your cooling system’s lifetime operational costs.

Improved Cooling Performance

Routine tune-ups facilitate consistent cooling performance, keeping your home comfortable even during Victorville’s most severe desert heat. New air filters, reliable blower fans, and clean evaporator coils optimize cooling and airflow, allowing your system to evenly regulate your home’s temperature.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Your AC system maintains indoor air quality by controlling airborne particles and humidity levels. Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles accumulate in your system’s filters and ducts. Without periodic air filter replacements, ductwork inspections, and other cleaning, these contaminants circulate throughout your home and may trigger or worsen allergies and respiratory issues.

Warranty Protection

Many AC manufacturers stipulate regular professional maintenance as a warranty condition. If your system fails due to a manufacturing defect, neglecting maintenance may leave you responsible for repair or replacement costs. Keeping with maintenance requirements protects your HVAC system and lowers the risk of a denied claim.

What to Expect from Your HVAC Technician During a Tune-Up

When your AC Plus technician arrives, you can expect professional and friendly service. After discussing specific AC concerns, they carefully inspect each system component, adjusting and cleaning as needed.

Following the service, your technician provides a detailed report of their findings and completed work. They may also offer maintenance tips, energy efficiency strategies, and recommended timing for your next service.

Schedule Your Spring AC Tune-Up with AC Plus

At AC Plus, our expert HVAC team provides thorough maintenance services, helping homeowners improve AC energy efficiency, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and extend the lifespan of their cooling systems. Contact us or book a service online with AC Plus today to prepare your home for the Victorville summer heat and enjoy the benefits of AC tune-ups.