There are basically three times of air conditioning units: the built-in wall AC, the portable window unit, and central air. Although they all help keep our homes at a nice, cool temperature, the way each type of unit works is different from the other. This is also why air conditioning repair procedures for each type are also different.

Living in places like Tampa, Lutz, Temple Terrace and Hillsborough can mean hot summer days that can become very uncomfortable when your AC unit breaks down. The last thing you should do is panic. In such a case, the best you can do is take-off the plug and call a professional AC repair company. However, it is also wise to learn some basic information about your cooling system and air conditioning repair so that you can avoid getting talked into unnecessary AC repair services by some companies.

Understanding how ACs work doesn't take a genius. The processes involved are mostly basic. For instance, heat transfer is the phenomenon behind the production of cool air. A breakdown in this process usually leads to malfunctions and a trip to your nearest Tampa air conditioning repair shop. It's simple really-hot air is transferred out while cool air takes its place. Of course, AC-quality cool air is possible because of a Freon, the substance (refrigerant) responsible for making air extra cool. If Freon levels on your unit gets too low or if there is a leak in parts where it passes through, expect some AC repairs to be done.

Another basic principle about air conditioners is that a refrigerant cycle is involved. Every type of unit has a compressor, a condenser, and a metering device. Damage to these important parts can lead to a lot of problems. Knowing how each part works can save you a lot of AC repair expenses. The compressor is responsible for creating pressure to turn the refrigerant (Freon) into vapor. The condenser or the condenser coils releases the heat which helps the refrigerant reach the vapor state. The metering system ensures leveled or reduced pressure when the right refrigerant conditions are reached.

Leaks on your unit could mean a frozen condenser coil or a leak somewhere in the compressor. Air conditioning repair companies recommend immediate shut down of the unit in order to defrost the coils. A replacement on the coil may also be suggested by an AC repair vendor because it could mean that there is just too much wear on the condenser coils.

If your are experiencing a noisy AC, the first thing you should check, according to a reliable AC repair vendor in Tampa, is the outside portion of the unit, especially for built in units. Sometimes, fallen leaves and dirt build up can constrict the unit. Clearing the outside unit can save you money and an unnecessary trip to the air conditioning repair shop.

Unplugging your unit for an hour or two can also extend its lifespan. An AC repair vendor from Tampa says the practice of unplugging the AC saves energy by 5%; reducing your bills per month.

Look for a certified AC repair shop in your area of Tampa, Carrollwood, Lutz, Temple Terrace, and Hillsborough.

Ken Barrett Air Conditioning

13909 Cherry Brook Lane

Tampa, FL 33618

(813) 968-5535

www.kenbarrettair.com