Reasons Your AC May Not Be Cooling Your House

A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing the efficiency of your AC system and preventing proper cooling. Seeking the service of a reliable HVAC contractor offers a quick and efficient solution to cooling problems caused by clogged air filters. These professional technicians are equipped with the right tools and expertise to fix AC problems such as refrigerant leaks and faulty compressors. Here are some of the reasons why your AC may not be cooling your house:

Frozen or Dirty Coils

As the indoor air flows over the evaporator coil, it is cooled and then circulated back into your home. When the coil becomes dirty or frozen, it cannot efficiently absorb heat from the air, causing poor cooling performance. The dirt accumulation limits the cooling surface area, while frozen coils block airflow, leading to a warmer house. Regular maintenance checks by a professional can help prevent this issue by cleaning the coils and offering proper airflow.

Low Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the air and cooling your home. When it is low, there is not enough refrigerant to properly absorb heat, causing poor cooling performance. This can be caused by a leak in the system or an improper initial charge during installation. A professional HVAC contractor can diagnose this issue and fix any leaks before recharging the refrigerant to proper levels. 

Faulty Compressor

A faulty compressor affects the cooling process, as it compresses and circulates the refrigerant in your AC system. If it fails, the system will not function properly, resulting in no cooling. This is be caused by either electrical issues or wear and tear. Strange noises like rattling, hissing, or screeching from the outdoor unit indicate mechanical problems affecting the compressor.

Clogged Air Filters

When air filters become clogged, they restrict airflow through the AC system. This limitation forces the system to work harder to circulate air, reducing its efficiency and effectiveness in cooling your home. Limited airflow caused by dirty filters leads to the evaporator coils freezing over. These coils are essential for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. When they freeze, the AC may no longer effectively remove heat, leading to poor cooling performance. An overworked AC system due to clogged air filters is less efficient, necessitating higher energy consumption. 

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is your HVAC system’s control center and regulates your home’s temperature. If the thermostat malfunctions, it can cause erratic cooling behavior or a complete lack of cooling. Faulty wiring, dead batteries, or general wear and tear cause this. A defective thermostat leads to higher energy bills due to the AC system working harder than required. The AC system depends on the thermostat signals to determine when to turn on and off. Monitor and replace a faulty thermostat.

Faulty Fan Motor

The fan motor in your AC system is responsible for circulating the cooled air from the evaporator coils through your home. If it malfunctions or fails, it causes limited airflow, leading to poor cooling performance and frozen coils. Worn bearings, lack of lubrication, or electrical issues can cause a faulty fan motor. The AC’s exterior fan, located on the condenser unit outside your home, may also fail due to debris buildup or damage from weather conditions. Regular maintenance and inspection can help detect potential issues with the fan motor and prevent costly repairs.

Seek Help from an Expert HVAC Contractor

Regular maintenance, cleaning, and timely repairs keep your AC system working efficiently and effectively. Schedule regular maintenance checks with an experienced HVAC contractor. They can identify cooling issues such as frozen coils, faulty fan motors, or low refrigerant levels and fix them. The contractor will also inspect the electrical components and refrigerant levels and clean any debris or buildup in the unit. Investing in a high-quality air filter and changing it regularly can improve the longevity of your AC system. Contact a trusted HVAC technician for AC repairs or maintenance.