It’s the peak of summer. Your family is wilting, your pets are listless, and you can’t remember what it feels like to be cool. You’ve turned the air conditioner on full blast, but the relief you’re seeking isn’t there. What’s going wrong?
Several factors could be behind your air conditioner’s underperformance. From clogged filters to insufficient refrigerant, faulty thermostats to sun-drenched rooms, myriad issues might prevent your home from cooling down.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand why your air conditioner might not be cooling your home sufficiently and what you can do about it.
Why is AC not Cooling?
Your air conditioner not cooling your home as it should be can be a real problem, especially in hotter climates. While you may need to consider humidifiers in Las Vegas to alleviate dryness, an underperforming AC may also result from several issues.
An AC not cooling the home effectively can be due to incorrect settings, leaks, mechanical failure, or inadequate maintenance. Let’s explore the possible culprits behind this predicament.
The Filters are Clogged
A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of an air conditioner not cooling. Your AC system circulates air throughout your home, passing through filters designed to catch dust, pollen, and other particulates. Over time, these filters can become clogged, resulting in reduced airflow. Check your filters first when the air conditioning is not cooling the house as it should be. Replacing or cleaning them could solve the problem.
The Refrigerant is Leaking or Low
The refrigerant in your AC system is crucial in cooling your home. It absorbs heat from the air inside your house and releases it outside, cooling the indoor air. If the refrigerant is leaking or its levels are low, it can lead to your air conditioner not cooling sufficiently. You may also notice ice build-up on the coils or hear a hissing sound. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, call a professional to inspect and recharge the system, as handling refrigerant requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
The Coils are Frozen or Dirty
Just as with filters, the coils in your AC system can accumulate dirt over time. When dirty, they cannot absorb heat efficiently, leading to the issue of your AC not cooling your home. Additionally, if the coils freeze, the system is not effectively removing heat from the air. The result is that your AC may continue to run, but the house should be cooling down better.
There’s Leaking Air
Leaks in the ductwork can result in a significant amount of cooled air escaping before it reaches your living spaces. This could be the reason your home AC is not cooling. Leaks can occur due to age, damage, or incorrect installation. It’s essential to have a professional inspect your ductwork if you suspect this is the issue.
The Compressor is not Running
The compressor is the heart of your AC system. It circulates the refrigerant and helps in removing heat from your home. If the compressor is not running, your air conditioner is not cooling enough. Compressor issues can be due to a blown fuse, a defective capacitor, or a faulty motor. If your compressor is not working, consider AC replacement in Las Vegas.
Exterior Fan Motor Could Be the Culprit
The exterior fan is responsible for transferring the heat from your home to the outside air. If the fan isn’t working correctly, the air conditioner can’t cool your home effectively. This can lead to the system overheating or damaging the compressor. Regular inspection and maintenance can help identify and resolve fan issues before they become serious.
Check the Thermostat
Sometimes the problem is not with the AC itself but with the thermostat. If it’s correctly calibrated, your AC won’t get the right instructions, and you may find that your central AC needs to be cooling your home as it should. Regularly check your thermostat’s calibration and replace the batteries if necessary.
The Registers Are Dirty or Blocked
Another reason your air conditioner may need to be cooling sufficiently is that your registers are dirty or blocked. Ensure all registers are clean and that furniture, rugs, or drapes are not blocked.
There’s Too Much Heat From the Sun
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with your AC; it could be that your home is getting too much heat from the sun, overpowering your AC’s cooling capacity. Consider using shades, blinds, or curtains to reduce the solar heat your home absorbs.
Proper Maintenance
Lastly, remember that regular AC maintenance in Las Vegas is vital to keep your air conditioning system running smoothly. This includes changing the air filters, cleaning the coils, checking for leaks, inspecting the fan motor and compressor, and ensuring the thermostat works properly. Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming big problems and keeps your AC cooling effectively.
Should You Turn Off the AC If It’s Not Cooling?
Many homeowners wonder if they should turn off their air conditioner when it’s not cooling. The short answer is yes. If your AC system isn’t cooling effectively, turning it off can prevent possible damage while you diagnose the problem.
An overworked air conditioner may cause a higher electricity bill without the benefit of a cool, comfortable home. So, while you investigate the issue, turning off the AC will save energy and money.
A common cause of insufficient cooling is a dirty or clogged air filter. Over time, dust, debris, and allergens can accumulate on your filter, impeding the airflow. Check and replace your air filter every 30 to 60 days to ensure your AC system works efficiently.
Quickly inspecting your thermostat settings can also solve the problem. Make sure it is set at the correct temperature and mode. If your thermostat is outdated, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for optimal performance.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
Sometimes, the issues causing your air conditioner’s inefficiency may require professional help. For example, you should contact an HVAC professional if your system has low refrigerant levels or a damaged compressor.
A lack of cool air can signal that your AC unit leaks refrigerant. You should never try to fix refrigerant leaks yourself because the refrigerant is hazardous, and mishandling it can lead to severe consequences.
Furthermore, if you notice your air conditioner is making unusual noises or if the problem persists despite your troubleshooting efforts, it’s time to contact our professionals.
Our HVAC experts have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and fix your AC issues. Don’t wait until your comfort is compromised; call the professionals at the first sign of trouble.
Don’t let an underperforming AC leave you sweating and uncomfortable. From addressing clogged filters to ensuring regular maintenance, you can often solve the issue yourself. However, professional intervention becomes necessary when you encounter more severe problems, such as refrigerant leaks or a faulty compressor.
Stay vigilant, understand your AC system, and don’t hesitate to seek expert help when needed. Keep your home cool, and your comfort intact, and enjoy a refreshing summer.
