Air Conditioning FAQ

How often should I have my air conditioning equipment serviced?

Air Conditioning equipment should be serviced once a year. At MacGregor we recommend having your air conditioning system checked in the spring. That way you‘ll be ready for anything that the season has to throw at you!

How important is it to change my filter?

A clean filter allows good airflow that is critical to the efficient operation of any air conditioning system. A clean, high-efficient air filter will also protect the system from the harmful effect of dirt buildup on the vital components of the air handler. A high-quality air filtration system also provides for cleaner air in your home and ensures a higher level of comfort for you and your family.

What can I do to protect my A/C unit and how can I keep it clean?

Trim plants and bushes around the unit to provide at least twelve (12) inches of clearance for air flow. Keep pets away from the outdoor unit, as the acid in pet urine is a corrosive that will deteriorate the metal. Have the unit serviced annually to maintain cleanliness and ensure proper air flow.

What size A/C do I really need for my home?

A properly sized system is very important. A system that is too big for your home will cool or heat your house quickly, but you probably won’t feel as comfortable as you wish. In the case of A/C, that’s because the thermostat sensed the desired temperature before the system could get the humidity out of the air. You feel sticky and humid and your house is susceptible to moisture and mold issues.

A system that is too small never can keep up and will never cycle off. This greatly increases your energy bills and substantially reduces the life of your system.

A properly sized system isn’t just based on square feet of your home. Many factors go into determining the size of the system including thickness of the walls, number and size of windows, thickness of insulation, basement and attic use, house orientation, and many other details. A MacGregor comfort specialist will take detailed measurements of your home and scientifically determine the correct sized system. We will fit your home with the most efficient system for years of comfort and reliability.

Should I cover my outdoor AC unit during Northern Michigan winters?

It’s a common question here in the Harbor Springs and Petoskey areas where the lake-effect snow piles high! The short answer is: only cover the top.

Air conditioners are built to withstand the elements, including heavy snow and rain. However, placing a sturdy piece of plywood or a specialized top-cover over the unit prevents falling ice and heavy snow accumulation from dropping inside and damaging the fan blades. Never wrap the entire unit in a tight tarp. Doing so traps moisture, invites rust, and creates a cozy winter shelter for rodents to chew on your wiring.

Why is my AC running but not cooling my home?

There are a few reasons this might happen. The most common culprit is a dirty air filter blocking airflow, or a buildup of dirt and debris around the outdoor condenser unit. Other possibilities include low refrigerant levels (which indicates a leak), a malfunctioning thermostat, or a dirty evaporator coil. If changing your filter and clearing away outdoor debris doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to call a MacGregor technician.

Why is there ice on my air conditioner during the summer?

Ice on your AC lines or evaporator coil usually means your system is suffering from restricted airflow or a refrigerant leak. When the system can’t absorb enough heat from your home’s air, the condensation on the coils freezes over. If you notice ice, turn the AC off immediately to prevent damage to the compressor. Switch your thermostat’s fan setting to “ON” to help melt the ice, check your air filter, and give us a call.

What is a SEER rating, and why does it matter?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently your air conditioner operates over a typical cooling season—the higher the SEER rating, the less energy the unit uses to cool your home. Modern air conditioners typically start at a SEER of 14, but high-efficiency models can go much higher. Upgrading to a high-SEER unit can significantly lower your summer energy bills.

Is it better to repair or replace my old air conditioner?

A good rule of thumb is the “$5,000 Rule.” Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated cost of the repair. If the result is more than $5,000, replacement is usually the smarter financial choice. Additionally, if your AC is over 10-15 years old, uses outdated R-22 Freon, or requires frequent repairs, investing in a new, energy-efficient system will likely save you money and headaches in the long run.

How can I lower my cooling bills during humid Michigan summers?

Summer humidity near the lake can make your home feel much warmer than the thermostat says it is. To keep your cooling bills down:

• Keep your AC at a consistent temperature rather than drastically raising and lowering it.
• Change your air filters regularly to maintain peak airflow.
• Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air.
• Keep blinds and curtains closed on south- and west-facing windows during the hottest parts of the day.
• Ensure your system is properly sized so it runs long enough to effectively pull humidity out of the air.

Do you offer emergency AC repair near me?

Yes! We know that AC systems rarely break down at a convenient time. That’s why MacGregor Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Generators answers calls 24/7. Whether you’re in Boyne City, Charlevoix, Cross Village, or anywhere else in our Emmet and Charlevoix county service area, our comfort specialists are ready to restore your home’s comfort as quickly as possible.