AC FAQ

At Hellgate Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we pride ourselves on providing expert, reliable, and high-quality AC installation services. Our certified technicians are experienced with a wide range of cooling systems and are committed to ensuring your new unit is installed correctly and efficiently. We focus on customer satisfaction, offering transparent pricing, and a commitment to getting the job done right the first time.

There are several indicators that it might be time for a new AC installation, including:

• Your current unit is more than 10-15 years old.
• Frequent and expensive repairs are needed.
• Your energy bills are consistently rising without a change in usage.
• The system is not cooling your home evenly or effectively.
• The unit is making strange noises or emitting bad odors.

We install a variety of cooling systems to meet the diverse needs of our customers, including:

• Central air conditioning systems
• Ductless mini-split systems
• Heat pumps (which both heat and cool)
• High-efficiency and ENERGY STAR® rated models

The duration of an AC installation can vary depending on the complexity of the job, the type of system being installed, and whether new ductwork is required. A standard replacement of a central AC unit can typically be completed in one day. We'll provide you with a more precise timeline during your consultation.

Choosing the right size (measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs) is crucial for both efficiency and comfort. An AC unit that is too small won't cool your home effectively, while one that is too large will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to higher energy bills and poor dehumidification. Our technicians will perform a professional load calculation, considering factors like the size of your home, ceiling height, insulation, number of windows, and sun exposure to determine the perfect size for your needs.

Yes, we understand that a new AC unit is a significant investment. We offer a variety of payment plan options to help make your new installation more affordable. Please contact us directly or ask during your consultation to learn more about our current payment plans.

We strongly advise against a DIY AC installation. This is a complex process that requires specific tools, technical knowledge of electrical wiring, refrigerant handling, and proper sizing to ensure the system operates safely and efficiently. An improper installation can lead to system failure, voiding of manufacturer warranties, and even safety hazards. Our certified professionals have the expertise to ensure your installation is done correctly and safely.

The cost of a new AC installation varies widely based on several factors, including the type and size of the unit, the complexity of the installation, and any necessary ductwork modifications. We provide free, no-obligation quotes after an on-site evaluation so you know the exact cost upfront with no hidden fees.

A: Most new air conditioning units come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers parts. We also stand by our workmanship with a labor warranty on our installations. We will provide you with all the warranty information for your specific system and our installation service.

To maximize your AC's lifespan and efficiency, professional maintenance is a must. Hellgate Plumbing, Heating and Cooling's services help prevent breakdowns, lower energy bills, and improve your home's air quality. We recommend a tune-up at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season starts.

Regular AC maintenance is crucial for several reasons. It helps your system run at peak efficiency, which means it uses less energy to cool your home, leading to lower utility bills. Routine service also allows our technicians to catch small issues before they become major, expensive repairs, extending the lifespan of your equipment. Additionally, a well-maintained system provides better indoor air quality and more consistent cooling.

We recommend a professional AC tune-up once a year. The best time is in the spring, before the hot summer weather puts a heavy load on your system. This proactive approach ensures your unit is ready for the high-demand season and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need it most.

Our comprehensive AC maintenance service includes a thorough inspection and cleaning of your unit. Our technicians will:

• Inspect and clean or replace air filters.
• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils.
• Check refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.
• Lubricate moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
• Inspect electrical components and connections.
• Check the condensate drain line for clogs.
• Test thermostat function and calibration.
• Measure airflow and system performance.

While there are a few basic tasks homeowners can do, like changing air filters every 1-3 months and keeping the outdoor unit clear of debris, professional maintenance is essential. An annual tune-up involves complex inspections and adjustments that should only be performed by a certified technician. Attempting these tasks yourself could lead to injury or damage to your system, and could void your warranty.

Be on the lookout for these common signs:

• Weak airflow or inconsistent cooling.
• The system is making strange noises like grinding, squealing, or hissing.
• Unpleasant smells, such as a musty odor or a burning smell.
• Water leaks or puddles around the indoor unit.
• Your AC is "short cycling", turning on and off too frequently.
• A sudden and unexplained increase in your energy bills.

Your AC unit will often give you clear signs that it needs attention. Look out for:

• Warm or weak airflow: Your system is running, but the air coming from your vents is not as cool as it should be, or the airflow is weak.
• Strange noises: Listen for unusual sounds like grinding, hissing, squealing, or rattling, which can indicate a mechanical problem.
• Water or refrigerant leaks: Puddles of water around your indoor unit or ice buildup on the outdoor unit can signal a clogged drain line or a refrigerant leak.
• Foul odors: A musty smell can be a sign of mold or mildew, while a burning smell could indicate an electrical issue.
• Frequent on-and-off cycling: If your AC unit is turning on and off more often than usual, it may be struggling to maintain a set temperature.
• Unexplained rise in energy bills: An inefficient system has to work harder, which will cause your energy consumption to increase.

Our certified technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of AC issues. The most common problems we encounter include:

• Refrigerant leaks: Low refrigerant levels can be caused by a leak, which reduces your system's cooling capacity and efficiency.
• Frozen evaporator coils: This is often caused by a lack of airflow due to a dirty filter or a refrigerant leak.
• Clogged condensate drain lines: A blocked drain can cause water damage and prevent your system from properly removing humidity.
• Electrical problems: Issues with components like the capacitor, fan motor, or thermostat can prevent your unit from turning on or functioning correctly.
• Faulty compressors: The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and its failure can lead to a complete loss of cooling.

Yes, we understand that an AC breakdown on a hot day is more than just an inconvenience-it can be a safety concern. That's why we offer prompt and reliable emergency repair services to get your system back up and running as quickly as possible. Please call our dedicated service line to speak with a representative.

We strongly advise against attempting to repair your AC unit on your own. HVAC systems are complex, with high-voltage electrical components and pressurized refrigerant lines that can be dangerous to handle without proper training. DIY repairs can lead to further damage, costly fixes, and may even void your manufacturer's warranty. Our technicians have the tools, expertise, and certifications to perform repairs safely and correctly.

When you call us for a repair, a qualified technician will arrive at your home and:

• Listen to your concerns and inspect your system.
• Perform a full diagnostic check to accurately identify the problem.
• Explain the issue in clear, easy-to-understand terms.
• Provide a transparent, upfront quote for the repair cost before any work begins.
• Complete the repair efficiently and effectively to restore your home's comfort.

The cost of an AC repair can vary widely depending on the nature of the problem, the required parts, and the labor involved. After a thorough diagnosis, our technician will provide you with a detailed, no-obligation quote so you know the exact cost upfront.

Yes, we stand behind the quality of our work. We offer a warranty on both the parts we use and the labor we provide for your repair. Your technician will provide you with all the details of the specific warranty for your service.