The issue of air conditioning and why it does not cool properly is one that plagues those who have wasted their time and money on some shady AC repair service that has done a shoddy job. It is also a common issue for homeowners trying to fix the problem themselves. This article will go through the most common causes of AC running but not cooling, explain what you should do about it, as well as offer potential solutions for your situation.
Check The Thermostat
The first thing you should always check is the thermostat that is set to cool and not heat. Many people assume that it is supposed to work as soon as they turn it on, but this is not always the case. In fact, most of the time the AC will keep running until it reaches the temperature you set on the thermostat. If you suspect that your problem lies in this area, check your thermostat and adjust it accordingly.
If it is still blowing hot air, then it is time to proceed to the next step.
Check The Filter
If you have changed your filter recently, you might want to make sure that it is actually clean. Filters should always need to be changed regularly. If your filter is dirty, the AC will be trying to cool off a dirty house (that is, it will be running more), and this can lead to problems if there are excess allergens in the air that may aggravate sensitive people’s asthma or other conditions. Also, check to make sure that the filter is properly installed. If you do not see any dirt being sucked in, then there may be a clog, or the filter may be not properly secured.
Check The Condenser
Next, you will want to check the outside condenser. If the fins are dirty or there is debris blocking the airflow of incoming air, then this can lead to AC running but not cooling. This is why it is always important to keep your property cleaned up. You never know what could be blowing around in the wind that may settle on your AC unit and impede its ability to function properly.
If you see debris blocking the airflow of your condenser, you should take immediate action to clean it. This is something that needs to be done regularly. Use a sturdy broom or brush and some pipe cleaners to clear out any debris that may be clogging up the system.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
In more extreme cases, the evaporator coil may actually freeze. This is usually caused by a lack of airflow in the area. If there is not enough airflow, then this can cause ice to form on the evaporator coil and prevent proper air conditioning function. If you live in an area where it tends to be colder outside, or if you have a home with little protection from drafts and wind, this can lead to frozen coils.
In a situation like this, you will need to call in an HVAC professional. The problem area will need to be identified, and then you will want to call an AC repair service that has the necessary equipment to thaw out the coils efficiently.
Leaking Refrigerant
In some cases, the problem may actually be the refrigerant. There are four main components in an AC system: the compressor, condenser, receiver drier, and evaporator coil. Refrigerant is pumped from the compressor to all parts of the AC system. It is along this path that refrigerant leaks can occur.
Checking for leaks can be difficult without proper equipment. However, there are signs of refrigerant leaks that you can see with the human eye. Be aware that a leak is dangerous and can cause serious problems for you and your family if it is not addressed.
If you notice that your AC unit seems to be running longer than usual or if the interior of your home feels warmer than it should, then this may be an indication of a refrigerant leak. If you notice a peculiar chemical smell when using your AC, then contact a professional immediately.
Leaky Ducts
If you have a multi-unit building, then there is a chance that you may simply have some leaky ducts. If there are parts of your building that do not seem to be cooling properly, there may be a problem with the connections between the grills and the units. This will force you to have all the air conditioning systems checked.
You should never try to repair this on your own. Instead, contact an AC repair service and have them check your ducting system for leaks or other issues.
Undersized AC System
In many cases, the AC system may just need a simple maintenance overhaul. Even if your unit is brand new and in prime condition, if it is not properly sized for your home and does not have adequate airflow to cool your home efficiently, then this can lead to AC running but not cooling.
An undersized AC unit will be trying to work at a higher temperature than it should. This may mean that it is overheating and will no longer be functioning properly after a short period of time.
Installing a larger AC unit is an ideal solution to this problem as it will give your system the space to cool effectively.
Aging AC System
In many cases, however, the problem may be that your AC unit is just old and needs to be replaced. If you see that your AC unit is not working properly and it has been running for a long time without cooling effectively, then you may want to consider replacing the system before it completely breaks down. A professional HVAC technician can assess whether or not your unit is simply aging or if there are deeper issues at hand.
Replacing your AC system will be expensive, but it will also save you time and money in the long run. A new AC system can help you eliminate costly repairs and ensure that your home is properly cooled throughout the entire year.
If the AC is running but not cooling, it is never a good sign. There are many things that may be contributing to the problem, but a professional AC repair service can help you locate the problem and find a solution so that you can get your AC system back in working order as quickly as possible.
For more information on servicing your HVAC unit or to schedule a service call, contact Spectrum Heating and Air today! We provide affordable services for all kinds of air conditioning repair and maintenance needs. Call today to speak with one of our trained professionals.
