For over 70 years, Harker has been keeping the citizens of Madison, Dane County and the surrounding area cool during Wisconsin’s warm summer months. We’ve heard every question from homeowners you can think of – from when someone should consider investing in a new A/C unit to scheduling maintenance for their existing system. We have experience providing smooth installations for every kind of home and air conditioning system throughout Dane County. Call it our Midwestern hospitality, but we thought it would be a shame to keep this information secret, so we decided to let you know what we’ve learned since our founding in 1949. Have a question that’s not answered in this blog? Contact our knowledgeable team with your question – we’ve probably encountered your situation before.
How Can I Maintain My Air Conditioning System?
A/C maintenance includes a yearly inspection and tune-up by a qualified HVAC technician to ensure your air conditioner is running efficiently and safely. Ideally, maintenance should be in the spring before the weather starts getting warm (better to take care of any problems before it’s 90 degrees!). During an inspection, the technician will perform a variety of tune-ups and checks, including:
- Cleaning the A/C coils;
- Removing any large obstructions from the air filter;
- Checking refrigerant levels;
- Tightening any loose connections;
- Lubricating moving parts; and
- Testing that all components are working properly.Â
Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your A/C by up to 10 years and help lower your energy bills.
When Should I Replace my A/C Unit?
Air conditioning units typically need replacement after 10-15 years. As A/C units age, they become less efficient, require more frequent repairs, and the cost of maintenance increases. A/C installation in the spring or fall can save you money and ensure you have a working A/C when you need it most. The increased energy efficiency of a new air conditioning unit can noticeably lower your bills over time.
What Does A/C Installation Include?
Professional A/C installation involves several steps, including:Â
- Removing your existing A/C unit;
- Installing a new A/C base pad;
- Connecting the new condenser unit outdoors and any necessary ductwork indoors;
- Connecting and mounting the control board;
- Installing a drain line and fresh air intake;
- Wiring everything into your power supply;
- Filling the new system with refrigerant; and
- Configuring the controls.
A/C units are very heavy, fragile and cumbersome devices that require industry knowledge to install correctly. While you may have the opportunity to install a new A/C unit every 10 years, our HVAC technicians handle air conditioner installations everyday. That’s why we strongly recommend hiring an expert to install all new A/C units.
How Long Does it Take to Install a New A/C Unit?
Installing a new A/C unit can take between 4 to 8 hours depending on the complexity of your system, the model of A/C unit being installed and the unique situation of your home. This means that if your air conditioning breaks down during a hot summer day and an A/C replacement is needed, your building will go without cooling for several hours. Call an HVAC technician for maintenance in the spring and beat the heat.
Is A/C Installation Cheaper in Winter?
Yes, A/C installation is typically cheaper during the months when demand for service is lower. Planning ahead isn’t just good for avoiding emergencies – you can save a few bucks, too!
Service your Air Conditioning Unit Today
The professionals at Harker Heating and Cooling, Inc. have extensive experience repairing and maintaining air conditioning units throughout the state of Wisconsin. Ensure your unit will last you through the summer by contacting Harker Heating and Cooling, today.
