Q&A About AC Installations, Repairs, and Maintenance

 Welcome to our FAQ page! At Bow Valley HVAC, we specialize in air conditioning installations, repairs, and maintenance for homeowners and businesses in Calgary, Okotoks, High River, Airdrie, Cochrane, Strathmore, Vulcan, Nanton, Bragg Creek, Foothills County, Rocky View County, Wheatland County and surrounding areas. Our goal is to provide fast, reliable, and affordable HVAC services to ensure your home or business stays cool and comfortable all year round.

If you have more specific questions or need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us at (403) 796-2445 or Info@BowValleyHVAC.com

 Air conditioners typically last 10-15 years, but if your unit is showing signs of age, it may be time to consider a replacement. Signs that it might be time for a new AC unit include:

• Frequent repairs: If you’re constantly calling for repairs or the system breaks down regularly, replacing it may be more cost-effective than ongoing repairs.
• Increased energy bills: Older units are less efficient and can lead to higher energy bills. A new, energy-efficient model can save you money in the long run.
• Uneven cooling: If your AC is no longer cooling your home evenly or struggles to keep up with demand, a replacement might be necessary.
• Refrigerant leaks: If the refrigerant is leaking, the cost of repairing it could be high, especially if the unit is old.

If your air conditioner is approaching or past its expected lifespan, contact us to discuss whether a new installation is the right choice for your home

If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to call a professional HVAC technician for repair:

• Warm air blowing: If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cool air, there could be a problem with the refrigerant, compressor, or other components.
• Strange noises: Unusual sounds, like grinding, buzzing, or rattling, can indicate a mechanical issue that needs immediate attention.
• Weak airflow: Low or no airflow can be caused by clogged filters, a malfunctioning blower fan, or other problems that affect air circulation.
• Water leakage: Water pooling around your AC unit could indicate a clogged condensate drain or refrigerant leak.
• Frequent cycling: If your system turns on and off frequently, it could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty coils, or electrical issues.
• Unusual odors: If your AC emits a musty or burning smell, it could indicate mold growth or an electrical problem.

If you experience any of these issues, don’t hesitate to contact our team for a quick and thorough diagnosis.

Regular air conditioning maintenance is key to keeping your system running efficiently and preventing unexpected breakdowns. We recommend having your air conditioner serviced once a year—ideally in the spring before the hot weather begins. During a routine maintenance visit, our technicians will:

• Clean or replace air filters
• Inspect and clean the coils
• Check refrigerant levels
• Inspect and calibrate the thermostat
• Lubricate moving parts
• Ensure proper airflow

Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your unit and improves its efficiency, ultimately saving you money on energy bills.

 While you can perform basic maintenance tasks like replacing or cleaning the air filter, it’s important to leave more complicated tasks, such as coil cleaning, refrigerant checks, and electrical inspections, to the professionals. Attempting to perform these tasks yourself could result in damage to your system or even void your warranty.

By scheduling regular professional maintenance, you’ll ensure that your system remains in peak condition and avoid potential issues that could arise from DIY repairs.

 If your air conditioner’s evaporator coils freeze, the unit will struggle to cool properly and may even stop working altogether. Common causes of frozen coils include:

• Dirty filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing the coils to freeze.
• Low refrigerant levels: If your system is low on refrigerant, it can cause the coils to freeze.
• Poor airflow: Blocked vents, ducts, or a malfunctioning blower fan can reduce airflow, leading to frozen coils.
• Thermostat issues: If the thermostat is malfunctioning and set too low, it can cause the system to overwork and freeze.

If your AC is freezing up, contact us immediately for a diagnosis and repair.

  Yes! We understand that air conditioner problems can happen at any time, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency air conditioning repair services in Calgary, Okotoks, and surrounding areas. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a weekend, you can count on our team to restore comfort to your home quickly and efficiently. 

 To maximize the efficiency of your air conditioner and reduce energy bills, consider the following tips:

• Schedule regular maintenance to keep your system running at peak performance.
• Change air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and reduce strain on the system.
• Seal leaks in ducts to prevent cooled air from escaping and reduce energy loss.
• Use a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re not home.
• Keep the area around your AC unit clear of debris and obstructions for optimal airflow.

Our team can also provide recommendations for upgrading to energy-efficient systems that reduce your carbon footprint and lower your monthly energy bills.

  Choosing the right air conditioner depends on several factors, including the size of your home, your budget, and the level of energy efficiency you’re looking for. Our experts at Bow Valley HVAC will assess your home’s cooling needs and recommend the best air conditioning unit that fits your lifestyle and budget. We offer a range of energy-efficient models that provide superior cooling performance and long-term savings. 

 If you have more questions or need air conditioning service, don’t hesitate to contact Bow Valley HVAC. We proudly serve Calgary, Okotoks, High River, Airdrie, Cochrane, Bragg Creek, Vulcan, Nanton, Strathmore, Foothills County, Rocky View County, Wheatland County and surrounding areas with top-notch air conditioning installation, repairs, and maintenance.

Call us at (403) 796-2445 or fill out our online form to request an appointment today!