On a hot Utah summer day, there is nothing more frustrating than realizing that your air conditioning system isn’t cooling your home the way that it should. It’s no surprise that HVAC systems can experience issues of not cooling properly. Understanding the common causes and solutions can help you stay cool and comfortable, no matter what month it is. Here are some of the most frequent reasons behind inadequate cooling and what you can do to quickly address these issues.
Dirty Air Filters
One of the most common reasons for an inefficient AC system is dirty or clogged air filters. Over time, dust, debris, and allergens accumulate in the filters, reducing airflow and making it harder for your system to cool the air effectively.
To prevent this issue, replace your air filters regularly, ideally every 3 months, depending on your usage and the type of filter you use. However, if you live with pets or smokers, you may want to change your filters more often to maintain optimal air quality. Additionally, it’s advisable to change filters more frequently if anyone in your household has allergy issues. Regular filter changes not only improves your AC’s efficiency but can also ensure healthier indoor air for you and your family.
Refrigerant Leak
If your AC is low on refrigerant due to a leak or other problems, it won’t be able to cool the air properly. Signs of refrigerant issues include decreased cooling capacity and unusual hissing or bubbling noises. To resolve this, contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect for leaks, repair them, and recharge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
The culprit behind a warm home might not even be your AC system, but rather your thermostat. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it could be telling your AC to turn off early or not reach the desired temperature. It is important that you check the thermostat settings and change the batteries often. Make sure your thermostat is set to cool your home and not heat it.
The Compressor Is Not Running
The compressor plays a vital role in your AC system by circulating refrigerant to cool indoor air. However, it may stop functioning correctly due to electrical or motor-related issues. When you begin to notice warm air flowing from the vents accompanied by unusual noises, these are signs of potential compressor problems. Delaying the repairs of a compressor issue can lead to bigger problems and more expensive repairs in the future. It’s essential to address compressor problems promptly to maintain your AC system’s efficiency and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Frozen or Dirty Coils
Over time, evaporator coils can accumulate dirt, dust, debris, and even mold buildup. This can easily impact your AC system and potentially cause the coils to freeze. If this happens, it usually means that there is poor airflow. The best way to prevent frozen or dirty coils is to schedule regular maintenance for your AC system. An HVAC specialist can clean and inspect your coils.
Dirty or Blocked Condenser Unit
Condenser units are a critical component of your AC system. They are responsible for releasing heat absorbed from your home. When these units become dirty or blocked, it disrupts the heat dissipation process, causing your AC system to work harder to cool your space efficiently. To maintain optimal airflow and prevent your AC from over working, it’s advisable to include condenser unit cleaning in your maintenance routine. By doing so, you can effectively remove debris and ensure your AC system operates at its best, keeping your home nice and cool.
Damaged Heat Pump
Heat pumps are essential components that transfer heat in and out of your home, depending on whether you need cooling or heating. If the heat pump is malfunctioning, it can disrupt the heat exchange process, leading to inefficient cooling. Signs of a damaged heat pump may include inconsistent temperature control and unusual noises. To address this issue, it’s crucial to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and repair the heat pump when needed.
Contact Gauged up HVAC for All Your Air Conditioning Cooling Needs
When you notice your AC system not cooling properly, don’t sweat it out in the heat. Instead, take action to identify the underlying issues. Regular maintenance, such as changing air filters and scheduling professional inspections, can go a long way in preventing cooling problems.
If your AC system is still not cooling as it should, don’t hesitate to contact your local HVAC technician who can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate solutions.The professionals at Gauged Up HVAC can help! Our mission is to provide the state of Utah with exceptional standards by unbeatable customer service that is competitive and trustworthy.
Stay cool and comfortable all summer long by staying proactive about your AC system’s health.
