Blog - Air Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning

​As a homeowner in Minnesota, you know that reliable air conditioning is essential during the hot summer months. If you have an older air conditioning system, it’s crucial to maintain it properly to keep it running efficiently for as long as possible. Here are some expert tips to help you limp along your aging AC system and extend its lifespan.
​

1. Regularly Change or Clean Air Filters - One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your older air conditioning system is to regularly change or clean the air filters. Clogged or dirty filters can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and reducing its efficiency. Aim to replace or clean filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak usage periods.
2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean - The outdoor unit of your air conditioning system can accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris, which can obstruct airflow and affect performance. Make it a habit to clean the area around the outdoor unit regularly. Trim any nearby vegetation and ensure there’s at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Additionally, gently wash the condenser coils with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris.
3. Check and Clean the Evaporator Coils - Over time, evaporator coils can become dirty, reducing their ability to absorb heat. To keep your system running efficiently, inspect the evaporator coils annually and clean them as needed. If you’re unsure how to do this, consider scheduling a professional HVAC maintenance service.
4. Monitor Refrigerant Levels - Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC system to work harder, leading to potential damage and decreased efficiency. If you notice that your system is not cooling as effectively as it used to, it may be due to low refrigerant. Have a professional technician check and refill the refrigerant if necessary. Be aware that older systems using R-22 refrigerant are being phased out, so discuss alternatives with your technician.
5. Inspect and Seal Ductwork - Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork can lead to significant energy loss and reduce your system’s efficiency. Inspect your ductwork for any visible leaks or damage and seal them with appropriate materials. Additionally, consider adding insulation to your ducts to improve overall efficiency.
6. Adjust the Thermostat - Using your thermostat efficiently can help prolong the life of your older AC system. Set your thermostat to a slightly higher temperature when you’re not home and lower it only when you need cooling. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, reducing unnecessary strain on your system.
7. Ensure Proper Ventilation - Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining indoor air quality and reducing the load on your AC system. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to expel hot air and humidity. Additionally, ensure that your home is well-ventilated to allow for better air circulation.
8. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance - Regular professional maintenance is crucial for keeping your older air conditioning system in good working condition. Schedule annual tune-ups with a trusted HVAC professional to inspect, clean, and service your system. This proactive approach can help identify and address minor issues before they become major problems.
9. Reduce Heat Gain -  Minimize the amount of heat entering your home to reduce the workload on your AC system. Use blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, consider using reflective window films or adding insulation to your attic to further reduce heat gain.
10. Consider Temporary Cooling Solutions - If your older AC system is struggling to keep up, consider using temporary cooling solutions to supplement it. Portable air conditioners or fans can help provide additional cooling in specific areas, reducing the strain on your central system.

​Maintaining an older air conditioning system requires diligence and regular care. By following these expert tips, you can extend the life of your AC unit and ensure it continues to provide cooling comfort for your Minnesota home. Remember that regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping your system running efficiently for as long as possible.

​As the weather warms up in Minnesota, finding effective cooling solutions for your home becomes a priority. Portable air conditioners have become a popular option for many homeowners due to their convenience and flexibility. However, like any cooling solution, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here, we explore the pros and cons of portable air conditioners to help you determine if they are the right choice for your home.
The Pros of Portable Air Conditioners

1. Easy Installation - One of the main advantages of portable air conditioners is their ease of installation. Unlike central air systems or even window units, portable AC units do not require any permanent installation. Simply roll the unit into place, connect the exhaust hose to a window, and you’re ready to go.
2. Flexibility and Portability - As the name suggests, portable air conditioners can be easily moved from room to room. This flexibility allows you to cool specific areas of your home as needed, providing targeted comfort. This can be particularly useful in homes with rooms that are difficult to cool or in rental properties where permanent installations are not feasible.
3. Cost-Effective - Portable air conditioners are generally less expensive upfront than central air systems and even some window units. This makes them an attractive option for those on a budget or those looking for a temporary cooling solution.
4. No Need for Ductwork - Portable units are self-contained and do not require ductwork, which can be a significant advantage in homes where installing ducts is impractical or too costly. This makes them a viable option for older homes or additions that lack central air conditioning.
5. Supplemental Cooling - For homes with existing central air systems, portable air conditioners can provide supplemental cooling. This can be useful for particularly hot rooms, such as attics or sunrooms, or during periods of extreme heat when your central system may struggle to keep up.

The Cons of Portable Air Conditioners

1. Limited Cooling Capacity - Portable air conditioners are generally less powerful than central air systems or even some window units. They are best suited for cooling single rooms or small areas, and may not be effective in larger spaces or for whole-home cooling.
2. Noise Levels - Portable air conditioners can be quite noisy. Because all the components are housed within a single unit, there is less opportunity to insulate against sound compared to central air systems, where the noisy components are located outside.
3. Energy Efficiency - While portable air conditioners can be convenient, they are often less energy-efficient than other cooling options. This can result in higher energy bills, particularly if the unit is used frequently or for extended periods.
4. Space Requirements - Portable air conditioners take up floor space, which can be an issue in smaller rooms. Additionally, they require a window for the exhaust hose, which can limit your placement options and block natural light.
5. Maintenance and Water Management - Portable units require regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing filters and managing condensate. Some models have self-evaporating technology, but others may require manual draining of the water collected from humidity in the air.

Portable air conditioners offer a flexible, cost-effective cooling solution for Minnesota homeowners, particularly those in need of temporary or supplemental cooling. However, they also come with limitations in terms of cooling capacity, noise, and energy efficiency. By carefully considering these pros and cons, you can determine whether a portable air conditioner is the right choice for your home’s cooling needs.

As a homeowner in Minnesota, ensuring your air conditioning system is both efficient and environmentally friendly is crucial. One key component of your AC system is the refrigerant, the substance responsible for cooling the air that circulates through your home. Over the years, refrigerants have evolved, driven by efficiency and environmental concerns. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of air conditioning refrigerants and their implications for residential AC unit replacement or repair.

The Role of Refrigerants
Refrigerants are chemicals used in air conditioning systems to absorb and release heat, enabling the cooling process. The choice of refrigerant can significantly impact your system’s efficiency, environmental footprint, and compliance with regulations.

Common Types of Refrigerants

R-22 (Freon)
R-22, commonly known as Freon, was once the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioning systems. However, due to its ozone-depleting properties, its production and import have been phased out in the United States since January 1, 2020.

• Pros: Historically effective and widely used.
• Cons: Environmentally harmful, being phased out, expensive and difficult to source for repairs

R-410A (Puron)
R-410A, marketed under the brand name Puron, is the most common replacement for R-22. It is more environmentally friendly and efficient, with no ozone depletion potential.

• Pros: Higher efficiency, better heat absorption, no ozone depletion, widely available.
• Cons: Systems using R-410A require different equipment and cannot use R-22 components.

R-32
R-32 is another newer refrigerant gaining popularity for its low global warming potential (GWP) and high efficiency. It is often used in newer air conditioning systems designed to meet stricter environmental standards.

• Pros: Low GWP, high efficiency, requires less refrigerant charge, increasingly adopted in new systems.
• Cons: Flammable under certain conditions, requiring careful handling and specific system compatibility.

R-134a and R-407C
R-134a and R-407C are less commonly used in residential systems but can be found in certain applications. These refrigerants offer specific benefits depending on the system design and intended use.

• Pros: Effective for specific systems, available as alternatives in certain contexts.
• Cons: Generally less efficient than R-410A and R-32, with varying environmental impacts.

What Homeowners Need to Know

1. ​Replacing an Old AC Unit - If you have an older air conditioning system that uses R-22, consider replacing it with a new unit that uses R-410A or R-32. This not only ensures compliance with current regulations but also improves efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
   
2. Repairing an Existing AC Unit - For repairs, if your system still uses R-22, sourcing the refrigerant can be costly and challenging. It may be more cost-effective in the long run to upgrade to a newer system. Ensure any repairs are conducted by certified technicians who can handle refrigerants safely and legally.
   
3. Environmental Impact - Choosing an air conditioning system with a modern refrigerant like R-410A or R-32 helps reduce your carbon footprint. These refrigerants have significantly lower environmental impacts compared to older substances like R-22.
   
4. Energy Efficiency - Modern refrigerants often contribute to greater energy efficiency, which translates to lower energy bills. Investing in a system that uses R-410A or R-32 can provide long-term savings and improved performance.
   
5. Future-Proofing - Selecting a system with the latest refrigerant technology ensures that your investment is future-proof. As regulations continue to evolve, having a system that complies with the latest standards can save you from future compliance issues and potential retrofitting costs.

​
Understanding the different types of air conditioning refrigerants is essential for Minnesota homeowners considering the replacement or repair of their AC units. Modern refrigerants like R-410A and R-32 offer significant benefits in terms of efficiency and environmental impact. By making informed decisions about refrigerants, you can ensure a comfortable, efficient, and eco-friendly home.