Frequently Asked Questions about Air Conditioners

Common Air Conditioning Questions Answered

It can be difficult to find straightforward answers to your air conditioning questions when every company has its own agenda. At Finken, we believe you should have access to all the information you need to make the best decision for your home.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most common A/C questions—so you can get the facts, without the confusion.

How Does an Air Conditioner Work?

Air conditioners perform two essential functions:

✔️ Heat removal – Extracts warm air from your space.
✔️ Moisture removal – Reduces humidity, increasing comfort.

As warm indoor air is drawn up through the filter, it passes over a cold coil that removes heat and moisture. This process cools your home while reducing humidity, which is why you may notice a puddle of water outside or a PVC pipe dripping—that’s the excess moisture being drained away.

How Can I Maximize My Air Conditioner’s Energy Efficiency?

To keep your A/C running efficiently and lower energy costs, follow these tips:

✔️ Keep air vents unblocked – Ensure airflow is not restricted.
✔️ Schedule regular maintenance – A well-maintained system runs more efficiently.
✔️ Use ceiling fans – They help circulate cool air, allowing you to set your thermostat higher.
✔️ Replace filters regularly – A dirty filter reduces efficiency and increases energy use.

How Long Will My Air Conditioner Last?

A well-maintained A/C unit can last up to 15 years, while neglected systems may develop problems after just 7-10 years. To extend the lifespan of your system:

✔️ Check and replace filters monthly
✔️ Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear of debris
✔️ Provide shade for the unit during peak heat hours

Regular preventative maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and maximize efficiency.

What Do Air Conditioner Ratings Mean?

When shopping for a new air conditioner, you’ll encounter several important efficiency ratings:

• EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures how efficiently an A/C unit cools under peak conditions. Higher = More Efficient.
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Averages energy efficiency over an entire cooling season. Higher = More Energy Savings.
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): Measures heat pump efficiency in heating mode. Higher = Better Heating Performance.

Understanding these ratings can help you choose the best system for your home and save on energy bills.

Is It More Efficient for My A/C to Run for Short Bursts or Longer Periods?

Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool your home—it also removes moisture from the air.

🔹 It takes 7-10 minutes for an A/C unit to reach peak efficiency and effectively remove humidity.
🔹 If your system only runs for short bursts (5-7 minutes), it never reaches full efficiency and doesn’t remove enough moisture.
🔹 Frequent starting and stopping also puts unnecessary strain on the system, shortening its lifespan.

For optimal comfort and efficiency, your system should run for longer, steady periods instead of frequent short cycles.

Have More A/C Questions? We’re Here to Help!

We hope this quick guide has given you a better understanding of air conditioning systems. If you have more questions or need expert advice, the best approach is to talk to a trusted HVAC company.

📞 For professional A/C service or recommendations, visit our Contact Page!