When it’s a searing summer day in Lawrence, nothing is worse than realizing your AC isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you need to do is request AC repair. But your HVAC is a fairly complex system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s triggering the trouble solo.
That’s why Scott Temperature created this informational guide to help you understand what may be taking place with your cooling system. From here, you’ll discover a few prevailing situtations that explain why your house is feeling too warm. And even though some of these are simple] DIY activities, you might have to turn to a pro for AC repair.
And if you need us, Scott Temperature is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Lawrence.
1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Off
Every family uses their thermostat a bit differently to work with their specific needs. Even so, a lot of families make the error of setting their device to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even when you’ve reached your set temperature.
This can seem like your vents are pushing out warm air, when in reality it’s only using the fan more frequently than necessary. Try switching this setting and find out if things seem better.
2. Your System Needs to Be Cleaned
There are two central areas to look for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t feel like it is working as it should.
Firstly, examine your system’s filter. If you don’t switch your filter routinely, accumulated dirt can make it hard for air to pass through and lower the temperature your home. If your filter is obviously dirty or dusty, it’s probably time to replace it. (And as a rule, you should replace it about once every three months at the very least.)
If your filter appears clean, move to your external unit. Double check there’s a reasonable amount of space around your air conditioner and clear any plants or dirt stuck there. This piece of your cooling system discharges the heat from inside your house. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be feeling comfortable indoors.
We suggest scheduling professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your equipment operating properly and to keep your warranty valid.
3. Your AC is Losing Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your space. It cycles between your inside and external units to grab and release heat, to help your space stay comfortable. If there is an opening along that path, you won’t be cool again until you book professional air conditioning repair.
Signals of a refrigerant leak include a lack of conditioned air, more expensive electric bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises coming from your system.
If you think refrigerant might be leaking, call Scott Temperature for AC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.
4. One or More Elements Need to Be Replaced
Your AC contains a couple essential pieces. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one part is failing, your home comfort suffers.
Our Scott Temperature experts are trained and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you diagnose and mend any issue.
5. Your System Should Be Replaced
If your system is over 10 years old, it is probably time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it sadly won’t function as well as it has in the past. And it might be making your house too warm.
If your HVAC unit is on the younger side but still isn’t cutting it, it could be too small for your home. AC units are not one-size-fits-all. A system that’s not powerful enough absolutely can’t cool a place the way a properly sized system can.
Make a More Comfortable Space with Scott Temperature
You shouldn’t blow a moment this summer in a hot home. When your air conditioner isn’t operating correct, turn to Scott Temperature. We’re experts in AC repair. Contact us at 785-269-0465 today.