In summer, your air conditioner is an essential appliance to keep your living space comfortable and cool. However, there might be instances when you turn on your air conditioner only to find it’s not properly cooling. Before you start sweating over the thought of a costly repair (literally), it’s a good idea to explore some common reasons why this may be happening. Here are the top reasons why your air conditioner is not cooling.
1. Dirty Air Filters
One of the most common reason an air conditioner is not cooling is a dirty or clogged air filter. A filter that’s covered in dust, dirt, and debris can obstruct the airflow, causing your AC unit to struggle in cooling your space. Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filter every 1-3 months can drastically improve your AC’s efficiency.
2. Blocked Condenser Unit
The condenser unit, usually located outside, plays a critical role in releasing heat from your home. If it’s obstructed by dirt, leaves, or other debris, the unit won’t be able to expel heat efficiency. This can cause your air conditioner to work harder to cool your space. In turn, this can impact the cooling effectiveness. Regularly inspect and clean the area around your condenser unit to ensure proper airflow.
3. Refrigerant Issues
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner, responsible for absorbing and releasing heat. If your AC is low on refrigerant due to a leak, its cooling performance will suffer as a result. Low refrigerant levels can also leave to other issues, such as freezing of the evaporator coils, reducing the unit’s cooling capacity. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s best to consult a professional HVAC technician to address the issue. Never attempt to repair refrigerant leaks yourself.
4. Faulty Compressor
The compressor is another crucial component of your air conditioning system. It’s responsible for circulating the refrigerant and maintaining the pressure needed for heat exchange. A malfunctioning compressor can lead to inadequate cooling. If you hear any strange noises coming from your air conditioner or notice that it’s running but not cooling, a faulty compressor could be at fault.
5. Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the problem might not be with your air conditioner itself but with the thermostat that controls it. If your thermostat is not calibrated correctly, it could lead to incorrect temperature readings and improper cooling cycles. Ensure that your thermostat is set to the desired temperature and is functioning correctly.
6. Ductwork Problems
Damaged or poorly insulated ductwork can lead to cooled air escaping before it reaches your living spaces. This can result in uneven cooling and reduced efficiency. Inspect your ducts for any visible signs of damage, leaks, or inadequate insulation, and consider hiring a professional to address these issues.
Contact Summers Plumbing, Heating & Cooling For All Your Air Conditioner Repair Needs in Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio
Is your air conditioner not cooling when you need it most? Summers Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers air conditioning repair services you can count on. Contact us today for all your AC repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance needs. We serve parts of Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio.
