Why Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling- 6 Common Causes and How to Fix Them

Why Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling: 6 Common Causes and How to Fix Them

A well-functioning air conditioning system in Sacramento is important to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home throughout the year. In this blog, we’ll explore common reasons why your AC unit may not be cooling your home effectively and provide tips on how to fix them.

 

All Year Heating Inc. prides itself on being the premier HVAC company for AC repairs in Sacramento. Our dedication to delivering excellent customer service and dependable solutions to your AC requirements is at the heart of our business. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance check or AC repair service. Call us at (916) 922-7796 or at info@allyearah.com.

 

Six Possible Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling

1. The Air Filters Might Be Dirty

Air filters play a vital role in keeping your air conditioning system clean and healthy. However, over time, air filters can become clogged or dirty, reducing airflow and leading to poor cooling performance, increased energy bills, and wear and tear on your system.

 

To prevent this from happening, inspect your air filters regularly and replace them when they become dirty. Experts recommend changing your air filters every one to three months, depending on usage.

 

2. Refrigerant Levels Could Be Low

Refrigerant is a vital component of your air conditioning system that absorbs heat from the air in your home and releases it outside. If your AC unit has low refrigerant levels or leaks, it may struggle to cool your home effectively.

 

Signs of low refrigerant levels include reduced cooling performance, ice buildup on the evaporator coil, and hissing or bubbling noises coming from your unit.

 

If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a licensed HVAC professional immediately. Attempting to fix a refrigerant leak on your own can be dangerous and may result in damage to your AC unit.

 

3. The Evaporator Coils May Be Clogged

The evaporator coils in your air conditioning system absorb heat from the air in your home. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the coils, leading to poor cooling performance.

 

Additionally, constant running of the AC unit can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, further reducing cooling performance. To prevent this from happening, schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioning system. This should include cleaning the evaporator coils to ensure they are free of dirt and debris.

 

4. You Might Have Faulty Thermostats

Your thermostat regulates the temperature in your home. If it is faulty, it may not accurately measure the temperature, leading to poor cooling performance.

 

Signs of a faulty thermostat include inconsistent temperatures, an unresponsive thermostat, and a constantly running AC unit. If you suspect a faulty thermostat, have it inspected by an HVAC professional. In some cases, a simple recalibration may be all that’s needed to fix the issue.

 

5. Your Insulation or Ductwork May Need to Be Fixed

The insulation and ductwork that distribute air throughout your home are crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature. If your home is poorly insulated or has poorly designed ductwork, your AC unit may struggle to cool your home effectively.

 

Signs of inadequate insulation or ductwork include uneven temperatures throughout your home, higher energy bills, and poor air quality.

 

To improve insulation and ductwork, have your home evaluated by an HVAC professional. They can provide recommendations for improving insulation and ductwork, such as adding more insulation to your attic or replacing leaky ductwork.

 

6. Your AC May Be the Wrong Size (or Incorrectly Installed)

The size and installation of your air conditioning unit are critical factors that affect its cooling performance. An AC unit that is too small for a room will struggle to cool it down, while an oversized one will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and reducing its lifespan.

 

Improper installation can also impact the performance of your AC unit. Common installation mistakes include installing the unit in a location that receives direct sunlight or near other heat sources, such as lamps or electronics.

 

To avoid these issues, have a licensed HVAC professional install your air conditioner. They will perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size for the unit and ensure that it is installed correctly.

 

All Year: Your Partner for Effective Home Cooling in Sacramento

There are several reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home as effectively as it should. However, by regularly inspecting and maintaining your air conditioning system, you can be sure that it runs smoothly and efficiently, keeping your home cool and comfortable all year round.

 

Remember to change your air filters regularly, watch for signs of refrigerant leaks, keep your evaporator coils clean and unfrozen, ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly, and consider the insulation and ductwork of your home. Additionally, have your AC professionally installed and sized to avoid common installation mistakes.

If you experience any issues, do not hesitate to reach out to All Year Heating and Air Conditioning. We have the expertise to diagnose and repair problems affecting your AC unit. Send us a message today to optimize your air conditioning system’s performance —  call (916) 922-7796 or email info@allyearah.com.