4 Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling Enough

It’s frustrating when your air conditioner stops cooling your home effectively, especially on a hot summer day in Missouri. Identifying the root cause is the first step in restoring comfort.

The expert HVAC technicians at Faszold Heating & Cooling put together four common reasons why your AC might not be working right and how to address each issue.

1. Low Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from your home and releases it outside. Low refrigerant reduces cooling efficiency and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze or the compressor to overheat. Therefore, it’s crucial to address this problem quickly.

Low refrigerant typically means there’s a leak. Only a certified HVAC technician can locate and fix the leak and recharge the system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant for optimal performance.

2. Dirty Air Filter

No air conditioner should run without an air filter to catch dust, hair, and unwanted airborne particles. As the filter does its job, it becomes clogged, eventually restricting airflow and reducing system efficiency.

The good news is that changing a dirty air filter is easy. If you’re not sure where the filter is located, ask your HVAC technician at your next service visit, or find the manufacturer’s guide. After that, check and replace the filter every one to three months to ensure optimal airflow and efficiency.

3. Dirty Coils

Your air conditioning system has two coils: an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condenser coil. Both are crucial for the cooling process, but when they become dirty, their efficiency plummets, leading to lukewarm airflow.

Reduced airflow and ice on the evaporator coil are signs of a dirty coil. To clean it, gently brush off the dust or use a no-rinse coil cleaner. When you finish inside, check the condenser coil. Dirt and debris can accumulate on it, especially if it is located in a dusty or wooded area.

Clean the condenser coil by gently washing away debris with a garden hose. Schedule professional maintenance once a year for more thorough cleaning and to avoid accidental damage.

4. Electrical Issues

Numerous HVAC issues may stem from electrical problems, including poor cooling performance.

For instance:

• Damaged or frayed wires can disrupt the flow of electricity, causing your AC to fail. They’re a serious safety hazard and should be handled by a professional.
• If your AC draws too much power, the circuit breaker might trip. Resetting the breaker temporarily solves the problem, but you should investigate the cause of the overload.
• Capacitors provide the initial jolt of electricity to start the motor. If a capacitor fails, the motor won’t run, and your AC won’t cool the house.

The Importance of Regular AC Maintenance

Annual maintenance is crucial to keep your air conditioner running efficiently. While you can perform some DIY maintenance tasks yourself, such as replacing the air filter and cleaning the coils, professional service is essential for more in-depth checks and repairs.

During a maintenance visit, a qualified technician will inspect all components, including the refrigerant charge, air filter, coils, electrical connections, and more. These preventative inspections allow technicians to spot and fix small issues before they become major problems. Cleaning and tuning up your air conditioning also ensures peak efficiency, saving you money on energy bills.

Contact Faszold Heating & Cooling Today

In short, regular checkups can prevent the most common air conditioning issues and extend the lifespan of your unit. If your AC isn’t working, trust the experts at Faszold Heating & Cooling to get it back in shape.

With over 40 years of experience and a commitment to your absolute comfort, you can expect top-rated service in St. Charles and St. Louis County. For the best value, consider signing up for the Faszold Club Membership Program. Members receive priority service, special discounts, and other benefits that promote smooth AC operation for years to come.

Don’t wait for your AC to develop problems — schedule AC maintenance now and stay cool all summer long!