When it gets hot outside, many of us take air conditioning for granted. So, if your air conditioner suddenly feels like it’s slacking, it can come as a great surprise. One minute, you’re enjoying a cool oasis, and the next, you’re sweating and wondering what went wrong.
Are you shaking your head, asking, “Why is my AC not cooling?” In this blog, we’ll discuss the reasons your air conditioner might not be performing optimally and offer practical solutions to get your home back to a comfortable temperature.
Reasons Why Your AC Is Not Cooling Enough in Akron, OH
By understanding the common reasons behind an air conditioner not cooling enough, you can take the necessary steps to maintain and troubleshoot your system.
Dirty Air Filter
One of the simplest and most common reasons why your AC is not cooling is a dirty air filter. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. This restricts airflow, making it harder for your AC to cool your home. Regularly checking and replacing your air filter can improve airflow.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is essential for the cooling process in your air conditioning system. If there’s a refrigerant leak, your AC will struggle to cool your home. Signs of a refrigerant leak include ice buildup on the refrigerant lines, hissing sounds, and a noticeable decrease in cooling efficiency. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s important to call a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the AC unit itself but with the thermostat. If your thermostat is not set correctly or is malfunctioning, it can cause your AC to blow warm air instead of cool air. Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and at the desired temperature. If the problem persists, you might need to replace the thermostat.
Blocked or Leaky Air Ducts
Your central air conditioning system relies on a network of air ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. If these ducts are blocked or leaking, your AC will not be able to cool your home effectively. Inspect your air ducts for any visible signs of damage or obstructions. Sealing any leaks and clearing blockages can help restore proper airflow and cooling.
Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil in your indoor unit absorbs heat from the air inside your home. If this coil gets dirty or freezes over, it can’t do its job properly, leading to your AC blowing warm air. Regular maintenance, which includes cleaning the coil and checking for ice buildup, can prevent this issue.
Faulty Condenser Coil
The condenser coil in your outdoor unit releases the heat absorbed by the evaporator coil. If the condenser coil is dirty or damaged, it can’t release heat efficiently, causing your AC to work harder and cool less effectively. Cleaning the condenser coil and confirming it’s still in good condition can improve your AC’s performance.
Inadequate Maintenance
Like any other appliance, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to function properly. Neglecting routine maintenance, such as cleaning and inspecting components, can lead to a decline in performance and an increase in issues. Scheduling regular AC tune-ups with a professional can help keep your system running smoothly.
Diagnosing the Problem
Now that you know the potential reasons why your AC is not cooling, it’s time to do some troubleshooting. Let’s review how to diagnose the problem so that you can determine the correct course of action.
Check for Air Flow Issues
Low airflow can significantly impact your AC’s ability to cool your home. Start by checking the air filter and air ducts for any obstructions. Also, make sure that the indoor and outdoor units are not blocked by furniture, plants, or debris.
Inspect the Thermostat
Verify that your thermostat is set to the correct mode and temperature. If the thermostat is battery-operated, try replacing the batteries. If the problem continues, consider switching to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control over your indoor climate.
Examine the Refrigerant Levels
As mentioned, low refrigerant levels can be a major reason why your air conditioner is working but not cooling the house. If you detect a drop in cooling performance, contact a qualified expert to check the refrigerant levels and look for potential leaks.
Look for Ice or Frost
If there is ice or frost on the evaporator coil, this can indicate a problem with the cooling process. If you see ice buildup, turn off the AC and let it thaw. Once thawed, inspect the evaporator coil for dirt and clean it if necessary. If the issue persists, call a technician to investigate further.
Assess the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit needs adequate airflow to release heat. Make sure the area around the unit is clear of debris, plants, and other obstructions. Check the condenser coil for dirt and clean it if needed.
Preventative Measures to Keep Your AC Running Smoothly in Akron, OH
Scheduling routine maintenance with an HVAC technician is the best way to keep your AC in top shape. During a tune-up, the technician will exhaustively clean and inspect all components, check refrigerant levels, and address any issues before they become major problems.
There are also steps you can take as a homeowner to keep your air conditioners functioning at their best:
Replace Air Filters
Replacing your air filter every one to three months can significantly improve your AC’s performance. A clean filter allows for improved airflow and reduces the strain on your system. If you think a clogged filter could be why your air conditioner is working but not cooling the house, it’s time to give it the attention it deserves.
Keep the Area Around the Outdoor Unit Clear
Check that the area around your outdoor unit is free of debris, plants, and other obstructions. This helps maintain proper airflow and allows the unit to release heat more efficiently.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat lets you set precise temperatures for different times of the day. Investing in one of these devices can help you save energy and maintain a consistent indoor climate.
Seal Air Leaks
Inspect your house for any air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts. Sealing these leaks can prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. This can make your AC more efficient.
Check the Insulation
Proper insulation helps keep your home cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. Make sure your home is adequately insulated to reduce the strain on your AC and improve energy efficiency.
When to Call a Professional in Akron, OH
While some AC-related issues can be resolved with simple maintenance and troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a professional. If your air conditioner is working but not cooling the house despite your efforts, it’s time to call in an HVAC professional. They can diagnose and fix complex issues, such as refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, and component failures.
Schedule Your Service in Akron, OH With Apollo!
If you’re experiencing issues with your air conditioning systems, don’t wait until the problems worsen. At Apollo Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, we offer comprehensive air conditioning repair in Akron, OH, and the surrounding areas to keep your home cool and comfortable. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix any AC issue, from refrigerant leaks to thermostat malfunctions.
Maintaining a comfortable home is essential, especially during the hot summer months. If your AC is not cooling enough, trust the experts at Apollo Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing to get your system back on track. Contact us today to schedule a service and make sure your home stays cool and comfortable all summer long! Whether you need to install a new AC unit or want to enhance your home’s air quality in Akron, we have what it takes to meet your entire household’s needs.
