Questions we hear a lot

Set the thermostat to Off, wait until the power has stayed on, then wait at least five more minutes before you turn it back on. The wait lets the pressures in the system settle. It protects the compressor, which is the part that costs the most.

Only with the power to the unit switched off at the disconnect, and only with a gentle spray from outside in. Never spray a running unit, and never use a pressure washer on the fins. If you are not sure where the disconnect is, call and we will tell you what to look for.

It depends on the repair, the age and how it has been running. We tell you what the repair costs and what it is likely to buy you, and put both in writing. Some visits end with a repair and a tip to wait a year; we would rather tell you that than sell you a system you do not need.

An air conditioner that is too big for the house cools the air fast and shuts off before it has pulled much moisture out. A weak fan, a dirty coil or a drain that is backing up can do the same. We look at all of them before we suggest a dehumidifier.

We tell you the visit fee when you book, and whether it comes off the repair if you go ahead. The repair itself is quoted in writing before we start. The How pricing works page explains what moves the number.

No. We work on cooling only: air conditioners and the air handlers, thermostats and drains that go with them. If your heat needs work, we will say so and suggest you call a heating company.

We measure the rooms, look at the windows, insulation and ducts, and work out the load for your house, not for a house like yours. Bigger is not better here: an oversized unit leaves the air damp.

Look at it once a month in summer. If you can't see light through it, change it. A clogged filter is one of the most common reasons a coil freezes.

Yes. When the job needs a permit, we pull it and the quote says so. The county inspector may need to see the work before the job is closed out.

Ask us. If we do, the quote lists the lender, the term, the APR and a note that it is with approved credit. Nothing is decided over the phone.

Call the shop number. After hours, the on-call tech calls you back and tells you the wait and the after-hours visit fee before anyone drives out. After hours we work as crew capacity allows.