Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling? Insights and Fixes
Have you ever thought about the variety of reasons why your air conditioner not cooling your home by removing warm indoor air? You're not the only one. A lot of people in the U.S. face this same problem and feel the heat from a broken AC.
However, in this comprehensive guide, it’s a good idea to note that with the right steps and expert help regarding your indoor air handler, you can find a quick fix to this issue and cool your home once more by addressing the warm air issues.
Key Takeaways
- 25-40% of the energy that heats and cools a house is wasted because of air leaks.
- Poor insulation and air leaks keep homes from staying cool during summer.
- Some common problems with AC include broken thermostats, dirty air filters, refrigerant leaks, and faulty compressors.
- Regular care, like a yearly check-up, can stop surprise breakdowns and high repair costs.
- Fixing AC problems right away is important for comfort at home and the system’s long life.
Troubleshooting the Air Flow
If your air conditioner is not cooling properly, check the airflow first. A dirty air filter can stop air from moving and keep cool air from spreading. Also, any blocks around the outdoor unit can affect airflow and heat release.
The first step is to replace the air filter with one that matches your HVAC system to improve air quality. The best way to ensure it is effective is to change it every three months, especially if you have pets. Next, check the evaporator coil, condenser unit, and indoor blower unit for any dirt, leaves, or plants that could block the flow of air. Taking these away can help your AC work better.
- Change the air filter often, usually every three months or more, if you have indoor pets.
- Check the outdoor condenser unit for any dirt or items that might block airflow.
- Remove any obstructions around the condenser unit to guarantee good airflow.
Fixing airflow problems, like a dirty filter or a blocked condenser, can often solve cooling issues. If the problems stay, you should call an HVAC expert for help.
Checking the Thermostat Settings
An air conditioner often doesn't cool well because of the thermostat. If the thermostat is not set correctly, it won't signal the AC to cool your house. First, check that the thermostat is set to "cool" and that the temperature is lower than the room temperature.
If the thermostat looks okay, the issue could be with other parts, like the electrical components or the compressor. It's important to check the thermostat settings to fix any problems with it.
To solve your thermostat issues, do these steps:
- Make sure the thermostat is set to "cool" mode.
- Check that the temperature is lower than the room's.
- If it runs on batteries, change the batteries.
- Make sure the thermostat shows the correct room temperature.
- Clean the sensors on the thermostat to prevent reading issues.
Fixing the thermostat settings can help with this common issue. After that, you can check if your air conditioner is not cooling properly for other reasons.
Inspecting the Outdoor Unit
If your air conditioner is working but not making your home cool, check the outdoor condenser unit. Look for signs of problems. A refrigerant leak or issues with the compressor can stop the system from cooling properly.
Start by looking closely at the condenser unit. Listen for strange noises or smells. Hissing sounds and a sweet smell could mean you have a refrigerant leak. If the compressor seems wrong, call an HVAC expert to help.
Next, look at the circuit breaker for the outdoor unit. A tripped breaker can stop the condenser. Also, clean dirt or leaves that block the fan's airflow. This helps the unit work well.
- Look at the condenser unit for any damage like rust or wear. If you see any, call a pro to fix it.
- Ensure the thermostat is set correctly and in cooling mode.
- If you can’t find the issue, call a skilled HVAC technician. They can solve tricky problems like blocked lines or fans that are not lined up right.
You can find and fix problems by checking the outdoor condenser unit. This helps your air conditioner cool your home well.
DIY Cleaning of Essential Components
Keeping your air conditioner in good condition is simple. A few easy steps can help it work better. One important task is to change the air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can block airflow. This can make your AC work less well and raise your energy costs.
The condenser coils outside also need cleaning. They help move heat from inside to outside. Dirt and debris can slow this down. Use a soft brush or a tool to clean them, but be gentle to avoid damage.
Doing these DIY tasks can make your AC last longer and work better. Always turn off the power before you clean it. Set reminders to look at the air filter and coils often.
Professional Solutions for Persistent Issues
If basic steps don't fix your air conditioner, it is time to call a pro. HVAC workers have the skills and tools for hard problems. They can find and fix issues that harm your AC's cooling.
They can find leaks, compressor problems, or issues with the ducts. They will add refrigerant, replace parts, or repair the ductwork. If you have ongoing problems or an old AC, a professional can help. They can suggest the best solution, whether it's a repair or a new system.
Don't wait to call an HVAC tech if your air is lukewarm or if you have trouble with the temperature. They can find and fix the main problem. This will help your AC work well again.
How Air Smith & Sons Inc. Can Help You
At Air Smith & Sons Inc., we focus on HVAC repair and air conditioning care. Our skilled workers can solve many AC issues. This includes finding problems, fixing them, and replacing AC systems.
If your air conditioner is not cooling well, will not start, or seems old, we can help. We will find the problem and offer the best cooling options.
Our services help keep your AC working well and stop problems before they start. We have a 5-star rating from 9 reviews. Customers in Tennessee trust us. We serve areas like Henry, McKenzie, Dresden, Paris, Martin, and Sharon.
For HVAC repair, care, or AC replacement, trust
Air Smith & Sons Inc. Our team keeps your home cool and helps lower your energy bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the usual reasons why my air conditioner is not cooling my home well?
The most common reasons are clogged air filters, wrong thermostat settings, refrigerant leaks, blocked outdoor units, and broken compressors. All these problems can stop your AC from cooling the house well.
How often should I change my air conditioner's filter?
You should change your air conditioner's filter every three months. If you have pets or a lot of dust, do it more often. Changing the filter helps with good airflow and keeps everything working well.
What should I look at if my air conditioner's outdoor unit is not working right?
Look for any dirt or items around the condenser unit that might block airflow. Also, pay attention to any strange sounds and look for rust or damage. A tripped circuit can make the outdoor unit stop working, so make sure the breaker is in the right spot.
Could a problem with the thermostat stop my air conditioner from cooling?
Yes, if the thermostat is not set to "cool" or if the temperature setting is higher than the room's temperature, the AC may not cool. Also, check if the thermostat is working well. If it runs on batteries, replace them.
What should I do if I suspect a refrigerant leak?
If you think there is a refrigerant leak, look for hissing sounds or a sweet smell near the AC unit. You should call a professional HVAC technician. They need to deal with refrigerant leaks because of the safety and technical problems involved.
Conclusion
When your air conditioner is not cooling properly, it can be very frustrating. However, you can often fix it by checking common problems. First, check the thermostat, air filter, and outdoor unit. If these do not work, you may need a professional to find and fix bigger issues.
Taking care of your air conditioner is important for staying cool all summer. You can fix problems, follow AC repair tips, and use home cooling advice to make your home comfortable and save energy.
