The warm weather is coming, is your air conditioning system in tip-top shape? If your AC is not blowing cold enough air, that is a RED FLAG that needs to be addressed. If you notice a problem, do not wait until the heat becomes unbearable in your home. There are many reasons why your AC can be malfunctioning, ranging from an easy fix to expensive solutions. Below, we are going to discuss the top reasons why your AC unit may not be cool enough. If it is something that needs expert advice, ECI Comfort is available to come and assess the complications.
Why Is My AC Not Cool Enough?
1. Your air filter is dirty
Air filters need to be changed every 60-90 days if you are constantly using your system. When an air filter is dirty, the amount of air that is able to blow over evaporator coils is restricted. The AC system actually works harder to cool the air, which will cause strain and malfunction.
SOLUTION: You can find the size of your filter marked on the one you have in your unit. They come in packs and have easy instructions to replace them.
2. Your outdoor unit is crowded and dirty
Condensers are made to be durable for all weather conditions from season to season. These units can be blocked by things such as debris and branches over time.
SOLUTION: Clear tree limbs, branches, plants, and debris away to maximize efficiency and open air around the condenser. The condenser fins are a grill-like section that is designed to help heat dissipate in the air.
SOLUTION: If there is dirt on these fins, using a cloth with warm water will clean these systems easily. If this is a problem for you, read the guide below written by ECI on how to landscape around your outdoor unit!
3. You have a refrigerant leak
Refrigerant is what flows through your air conditioner coils and moves the heat from inside your home to the outside. If there is a leak, the AC unit will not be able to properly remove the heat from your home, resulting in warmer temperatures than desired. A unit low on refrigerant will start running for longer periods of time, using more energy and costing more money out of your pocket.
SOLUTION: Arrange a service visit with one of our professionals who can measure the current amount of refrigerant levels and correct the necessary amount.
4. You have problematic thermostats and use improper settings
In older homes, older thermostats slowly stop functioning over time. Sensor problems with mechanical thermostats will result in unpredictable AC results. Improper settings such as setting your thermostat on a lower temperature when your fan is “on” or not on “cool” will result in warm air being blown out of your unit.
SOLUTION: To turn on your air conditioner, make sure your thermostat is on "cool." Replace the batteries of your thermostat (if they take them). Upgrade to a newer and more trustworthy thermostat such as Ecobee that are accurate and can save you money.
5. You have leaky ducts
Air ducts are used to guide conditioned air throughout your home. A leak can throw a kink in this process. Cracks, gaps, and missing sections of ductwork mean that cool air is not making it to its destination. Repairing leaky ducts are an extreme hassle.
SOLUTION: Ductwork is tricky, so it's best to hand this over to the professionals. ECI Comfort is available to service these leaks and repair them.
Many common problems with air conditioners can be resolved with proper maintenance of your system. To avoid further issues, having your air conditioner serviced annually by ECI Comfort, and taking general care of your system by disinfecting and cleaning it when needed will prolong your air conditioning system's life and run more efficiently.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
