When your air conditioner isn’t keeping your home as cool as it should, it can be frustrating, especially during the hottest days of summer. There are several reasons why your AC might not be functioning properly. Understanding why your AC isn’t cooling is essential for restoring your system’s function during the hottest days of the year.
If you want to learn more about why your AC isn’t cooling, keep reading.
1. Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
If your AC isn’t cooling, it is best to start with the simplest solutions, like checking your air filters. When your filters are clogged or dirty, the airflow into and out of the system is restricted, making it harder for your system to cool your home efficiently. If it has been longer than three months since you last changed your filters, this is likely the cause of your improperly functioning AC unit. Make sure to check and replace any dirty filters every one to three months to ensure the system continues to function properly during the hottest days of the year.
2. Thermostat Issues
If you’ve already checked your air filters and they aren’t the reason why your AC isn’t cooling, it may be best to turn your attention to your thermostat. Sometimes, the problem is incredibly simple. Double-check the batteries to ensure they aren’t dead, and check that it is set to cool your home. If the batteries and settings aren’t to blame, it may be the result of a malfunctioning thermostat. In this situation, it may be best to reach out to a trusted HVAC professional to schedule maintenance and AC repairs. They may also recommend a smart thermostat to prevent problems down the road.
3. Dirty Condenser Coils
During an especially windy or rainy spring, it isn’t uncommon for your AC unit to get dirty. While you might not think this is the likely cause of your improperly functioning unit, it may be the reason why your AC isn’t cooling. The outdoor condenser unit releases heat from your home. If the coils are covered in dirt and debris, your system won’t be able to release heat effectively, resulting in a system that doesn’t cool. If you want to address this, it is essential that you remove debris and gently rinse the coils to keep them functioning properly.
4. Refrigerant Leaks
Your AC unit relies on refrigerant to absorb heat and cool the air in your home. If there is a leak in the system, this may be the reason why your AC isn’t cooling your home. There are a few signs you’re dealing with a leak, including frozen coils and hissing sounds. If you suspect there is a leak in your system, it is best to reach out to a trusted HVAC professional to schedule essential system repairs. They can locate and repair the leak before it leads to more costly system damage and increased cooling costs.
5. Leaky or Blocked Ductwork
The ducts in your home are designed to properly cool your entire space. If your home has leaky or blocked ducts, the cool air may not be reaching your living spaces efficiently. This may mean that the problem isn’t that your AC isn’t cooling properly but that this cool air can’t reach you. If you have furniture blocking the ducts in your home, it is essential that you move it out of the way to allow this air to enter your living spaces. If the problem persists, it is best to reach out to your HVAC team for support.
6. Frozen Evaporator Coils
The coils in your unit absorb heat from the air in your home. If they freeze due to restricted airflow or refrigerant issues, this may be the reason why your AC isn’t cooling. The easiest way to address potentially frozen evaporator coils is by changing your air filters to ensure the system has adequate airflow. You should also turn off the system to let the coils thaw and check for any additional airflow issues. If, even with these steps, the problem persists, it is best to contact an HVAC technician for support. They can identify the problem and diagnose any deeper issues.
7. Aging AC Unit
While this can be incredibly frustrating, the reason why your AC isn’t cooling may be due to its age. On average, your AC has a 15- to 20-year lifespan. If it has been longer than 20 years since you’ve replaced the system, it may be struggling to meet your cooling demands, especially as summer temperatures reach all-time highs. While you may not want to do so, it is best to replace your system. This can save you money on repairs and cooling your home over the years, making it a worthwhile investment.
8. Electrical Problems
One final reason why your AC isn’t cooling may be due to an electrical problem within the system. Your AC relies on electrical components to function properly. If even one component of the system, like the capacitor, relay, or circuit board, malfunctions, the system may not function properly. While you may be tempted to perform these repairs yourself, it is best to avoid DIY electrical work, as this can pose a significant safety risk. Instead, reach out to a trusted HVAC team for support through this process.
Turn to R&D Heating & Air When Your AC Isn’t Cooling
If your AC isn’t cooling, it can be frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean you need a costly replacement. Many common issues can be remedied through regular maintenance and repairs. If you’re looking for a reliable HVAC team in the Roy, Utah, area to help you through AC repairs, turn to our team at R&D Heating & Air for support.
For years, we’ve provided the most reliable and comprehensive repair services to homeowners across the Wasatch Front. Whether you’re dealing with minor system breakdowns or need major repairs, we can do it all. With our support, your system will be working better than ever in no time.
When you’re ready to schedule HVAC repairs, don’t hesitate to contact our team for support.
