When it comes to assessing what’s wrong with a malfunctioning air conditioner, you’ll need the assistance of a trained and experienced professional. We understand how important it is that a broken down AC system be fixed ASAP in our area. Ideally, you had maintenance done, and you won’t have to deal with any problems this summer!
But chances are if you’re reading this particular blog post, you’re already in need of air conditioning repair. Our easy answer as to what to do when your cooling system won’t cool is, “give our professionals a call,” but this might not be good advice if it’s not actually an AC problem but something else going on. Read on as we uncover several reasons your cooling system might not be cooling, and whether or not you need a professional to take a look.
First, Check Your Thermostat
You may be surprised by how often we get phone calls about cooling systems that won’t actually cool. You might be more surprised by how often the cause isn’t related to the actual air conditioner at all.
Someone in your home may have unintentionally turned the thermostat up a few degrees—or they might have done it on purpose if they have a different preference for cooling than you do. It may even be that the thermostat got switched to “fan only” mode and is only circulating air rather than cooling it.
So, check your thermostat. Are the settings as you expect? If not, adjust it appropriately and see if that solves the problem.
Next, Check Your Air Filter
There’s a fairly common misconception that the air filter within your HVAC system is in place to protect your indoor air from contaminants. The actual purpose of this air filter, however, is to protect the interior components of the air conditioner itself from dirt, dust, and other debris.
If the air filter gets too clogged up with that debris, it restricts airflow, and your air conditioner won’t have enough input to allow for proper cooling output.
It Could Be an Evaporator Coil Problem
You might be facing a problem with a frozen evaporator coil. This component is the portion of your AC system where heat is drawn from the air and cooled down. It might seem only natural to see ice here, but it really isn’t a normal part of the process.
On the contrary, ice actually blocks the coil from absorbing heat. The ice can be a result of low refrigerant, because of leaks, or even too much dirt and grime on the coil.
You Might Have Failed Compressor Motors
The fan within your air conditioner’s air handler might be working fine, sending air through your network of ducts. However, if the outdoor compressor isn’t functioning due to a failed capacitor or failed motor, you won’t get any cooling.
Our technicians should be called at this point to check your system. Keep in mind, if the compressor has burnt out and you have an aging air conditioner, it may be best at this point to consider an upgrade to a new system.
You Could Have a Broken Condenser Fan
The outdoor unit of your air conditioner contains a fan responsible for drawing in outdoor air. The air flows over the condenser coil so heat can be released outside. If the fan isn’t working, then no heat can be released, and as a result, the refrigerant won’t cool down and the air conditioner can’t do its job. Be sure to call in a pro if you suspect any problems with this fan!
For expert air conditioning repair in Toledo, OH, contact “Your Comfort Specialists” here at AW Heating & Cooling.