This is something we’ve talked about before on our blog, but it’s worth bringing up again, since it’s a problem we get called about each year.
When it comes to finding out what’s wrong with your struggling air conditioner, you’ll need the assistance of trained professional. We understand how essential it is that your broken down air conditioner be repaired right away especially if you’ve noticed strange noises from your AC system.
Ideally, you’ll have already had your maintenance session done this year, but if you’re reading this blog post, you either skipped this service or didn’t take care of recommended repairs. So, what should you do now? Read on to find out!
Check Your Thermostat Settings First
One of the most common repair calls our staff receives is about a cooling system that won’t… well… cool. This is, of course, an intolerable problem, but it might have a simple solution! Check the thermostat.
Before you call an HVAC pro out, check to see if your air conditioning problem is actually a problem with your air conditioner, or it has to do with the thermostat settings.
There’s always a chance that someone in your home may have unintentionally turned the thermostat up a few degrees—or perhaps they even did it on purpose if they have a different cooling preference than you. It might even be that your air conditioner got switched to “fan only” mode, and is only circulating air rather than actually cooling it.
Replace or Clean the Air Filter
There’s a fairly common misconception that the standard air filter in your HVAC system is there to protect the indoor air from allergens and other contaminants. The actual purpose of this component, however, is to protect the interior components of the air conditioner itself from this debris. And if the air filter becomes too clogged up, it won’t allow the right level of airflow through, which will impact the overall performance of your air conditioner. Restricted airflow or other issues may also cause odd sounds from your AC unit.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
So, what if the above-mentioned solutions do not resolve your problem? Well, then there’s something more serious going on. Problems that require professional attention include:
- Evaporator Coil Trouble: You might have a frozen evaporator coil. This is the component of your cooling system that draws in heat from the air in order to cool it down. Ice might seem like a normal part of the process, but trust us when we say it isn’t. This ice development actually blocks the coil from absorbing heat—that is, it cannot do its job. This might happen because of low refrigerant, leaks, or even too much grime buildup on the coil.
- Failed Compressor Motor: Perhaps the fan within your air conditioner’s handler is working just fine. So, you hear the system running, and it’s blowing out air—but that air just isn’t The thing is, if the outdoor compressor isn’t working due to failed capacitors or even a failed motor, then you won’t receive any cooling. Our technicians can certainly handle this type of repair, but in some cases, it makes more financial sense to replace the air conditioner—at least, if it’s 10-15 years old.
- Broken Condenser Fan: One last potential cause of low cooling power is a broken condenser fan. The heat your air conditioner draws in cannot be released if the condenser fan is broken, and therefore a professional must repair it right away. If you’re unsure what’s wrong, check out warning signs your AC needs repair for more insight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why is my air conditioner running but not cooling the house?
Answer: If your AC is running but not cooling, it could be due to a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, thermostat issues, or a problem with the outdoor unit. Restricted airflow or a malfunctioning component can prevent your system from properly lowering indoor temperatures.
Question: What should I check first when my AC won’t cool?
Answer: Start by checking your thermostat settings to ensure it is set to cool and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Then inspect your air filter for dirt buildup and make sure the outdoor unit is clear of debris and obstructions.
Question: Can a dirty air filter cause my AC to stop cooling?
Answer: Yes, a clogged air filter can significantly restrict airflow, making it harder for your system to circulate cool air. This can reduce efficiency, strain the unit, and sometimes cause the evaporator coil to freeze, leading to poor cooling performance.
Question: When should I call a professional for AC repair?
Answer: If basic troubleshooting does not solve the issue, or if you notice warm air blowing, strange noises, ice on the unit, or frequent cycling, it is best to contact a licensed HVAC technician. Professional diagnosis ensures the problem is resolved safely and correctly.
Question: How can I prevent my AC from failing to cool in the future?
Answer: Regular maintenance is key to preventing cooling issues. Change air filters routinely, keep vents unobstructed, clear debris around the outdoor unit, and schedule annual professional tune ups to keep your system running efficiently during peak cooling seasons.
For trustworthy AC repair in Alpharetta, GA, contact Wall Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.