It is one of the most frustrating things that can happen in the middle of summer: your air conditioner is running, but your home still feels hot and uncomfortable. If your AC is not cooling effectively, there could be several reasons behind the issue.
At Arellano Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners get to the root of these problems every day. Here are some of the most common causes of weak or inconsistent cooling and what you can do about them.
1. Dirty Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which means your system has to work harder to move air throughout your home. This often results in uneven temperatures, poor cooling performance, and even system breakdowns over time.
Solution: Check your filter every month and replace it as needed. Most homes benefit from a new filter every 1 to 3 months.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is what cools the air inside your system. If your AC is low on refrigerant due to a leak, it cannot absorb heat effectively. This leads to lukewarm air coming out of your vents.
Solution: A certified technician can diagnose the leak, repair it, and recharge your system with the correct refrigerant level.
3. Thermostat Issues
Sometimes the problem is not the system itself but the thermostat controlling it. If your thermostat is faulty, placed in a poor location, or set incorrectly, your AC may turn on and off at the wrong times or fail to run at all.
Solution: Double-check your settings and battery, and make sure the thermostat is not near a heat source like a window. If problems persist, it may need replacement or calibration.
4. Blocked or Leaky Ductwork
Your air ducts are responsible for delivering cooled air throughout your home. If they are dirty, disconnected, or leaking, a significant amount of cool air can be lost before it ever reaches your rooms.
Solution: Schedule a duct inspection to identify any leaks or blockages that might be limiting airflow.
5. Outdoor Unit Problems
The outdoor condenser unit needs clear airflow to release the heat it pulls from your home. If the unit is covered in debris, surrounded by weeds, or has a damaged fan, it will not be able to do its job efficiently.
Solution: Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of grass, leaves, and clutter. Have a technician check the unit during seasonal maintenance.
6. Undersized or Aging System
If your AC unit is too small for your home or has reached the end of its lifespan, it may no longer keep up with your cooling needs. Older systems tend to lose efficiency over time, which means higher bills and less comfort.
Solution: A licensed HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine if your system is properly sized. If not, consider a newer, more efficient model.
Let’s Get Your Home Comfortable Again
There is no need to suffer through the heat with a struggling air conditioner. If your AC is not cooling the way it should, the team at Arellano Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is ready to help. We offer fast, honest service and long-term solutions you can count on.
Skip to content