AC Not Cooling? Here’s What You Need to Know
Living in Florida, a malfunctioning air conditioning unit can be a major problem. Air conditioners are intricate systems that require the ideal combination of temperature, airflow, and pressure to function effectively. Fortunately, a lack of cooling doesn’t always require an expensive repair. In this article, we’ll explore a few DIY methods you can try to fix the issue yourself, as well as when it’s best to seek professional assistance.
7 Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling
- Improper Installation: If you recently installed a new air conditioning system and it’s not cooling properly, it may have been installed incorrectly or could be the wrong size for your home.
Solution: Have a second HVAC company inspect your system to identify any installation errors. - Unmaintained Condenser Unit: Many people overlook the importance of maintaining the outside condenser. Grass and weeds tend to grow around it, impeding proper airflow.
Solution: Use a weed wacker to clear any growth around the condenser unit, allowing it to function optimally. - Hold a lighter to the direct airflow from the vent.
- Move throughout your home, testing the vents furthest away from the HVAC unit.
- Start with the flame close to the vent, then gradually move farther away until the flame stops wavering.
1. Breaker Issues
Have you ever experienced your AC suddenly stopping? One possible cause could be a tripped breaker. Look for breakers labeled HVAC, AC, Air Conditioner, Condenser, or Compressor, usually two or three of them. Simply flip them off, then back on again to see if this resolves the problem.
2. Thermostat Issues
If your thermostat’s display is blank, it could indicate a malfunction. This problem can often go unnoticed and may not be as obvious as strange noises. Start by changing the batteries in your thermostat and see if this resolves the issue. If not, it’s best to seek the help of a licensed HVAC professional to further troubleshoot this problem. They may need to replace the electrical board in your thermostat or install a new one altogether, as the wiring is connected to the back of the AC unit.
3. Frozen Air Handler
If your AC is still not cooling properly after addressing the above issues, check behind the air filter inside the unit’s evaporator coils. It is possible that the coils have become frozen, which can hinder the cooling process. If you notice ice buildup, turn off the AC and let the coils defrost. If the problem persists, it’s time to call in a professional.
- Broward: (954) 800-2858
- Palm Beach: (561) 701-8274
- St. Lucie: (772) 879-5656
Common Issues Affecting Your Air Conditioner’s Performance
1. Dirty Condenser
Even if there’s no grass around the condenser, it’s important to remember that this outdoor unit collects dirt and debris throughout the day. If you have trees nearby, leaves and other debris may fall into the casing, obstructing airflow and causing your AC to underperform.
If you haven’t cleaned your condenser in over a year, it could be the reason why your AC is not cooling properly. For detailed instructions on how to clean your air conditioner’s condenser coils, check out our blog post: How to Clean Your Air Conditioner’s Condenser Coils in 5 Easy Steps.
2. Insufficient Airflow
No matter how cold your AC makes the air, if there isn’t enough airflow coming through your vents, you won’t feel cooler. To check the airflow:
In rooms close to the HVAC unit, the flame should be affected even when you reach the opposite end of the room. While the flame is less likely to waver across a room that is far away from the unit, ideally, you should still see an effect on the other side.
If the airflow is too low, first check your air filters. If they’re dirty, replace them and repeat the airflow test. If the problem persists, consider contacting an HVAC company to perform a duct cleaning or inspect your AC fan for any potential issues.
3. Electrical Issues
Sometimes a breaker may be tripped but not flip into the “OFF” position. If your AC isn’t working, check your electrical panel and reset the breaker associated with the HVAC unit. However, if the problem persists or the breaker keeps tripping, it’s best to consult an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve any underlying electrical issues.
Common Air Conditioning Problems and Solutions
Remember, when dealing with air conditioning problems, it’s always best to consult with a professional HVAC technician. They have the necessary expertise and equipment to effectively diagnose and repair any issues with your AC system.
Why is Your AC Not Cooling? Common Causes and Solutions
It can be frustrating when your AC is not cooling your home as expected. There can be several reasons behind this issue, but two common culprits are a frozen AC and low refrigerant levels. Let’s take a closer look at these problems and their solutions.
1. Frozen AC
Believe it or not, a frozen AC can cause the air to become too hot. When the evaporator coils get covered in ice, it blocks the air from coming into contact with the refrigerant, preventing it from being cooled and dehumidified.
Solution: If your AC is frozen, turn it off and let it defrost for approximately 24 hours. Once it has completely defrosted and dried out, you can try using it again.
2. Dirty Evaporator Coils
Another potential cause for AC issues is dirty evaporator coils. After defrosting, inspect the evaporator coils. If they are dirty, it can obstruct proper airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
Solution: You can attempt to clean the coils yourself by gently scrubbing the grime with a soft brush, such as a toothbrush or a toilet brush. Be careful not to bend the fins or coils. If you’re unable to remove the grime, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician for a thorough cleaning.
3. Low Refrigerant Level
A common reason for inadequate cooling is a low refrigerant level. Refrigerant is essential for producing cool air.
Solution: Contact a licensed HVAC company to measure the refrigerant levels in your AC unit. They will have the necessary equipment to determine the issue accurately and can properly dispose of any used refrigerant.
In South Florida, where the heat can be intense, it’s crucial to address AC issues promptly to ensure your comfort. If you’re experiencing continuous cooling problems, it’s recommended to reach out to an HVAC technician for professional repairs.
Don’t suffer in the Florida heat – get your AC fixed quickly!
There’s nothing worse than your air conditioning system giving up on you in the scorching Florida summer. But worry not, because at Sansone, we have got your back. Our team of friendly and licensed HVAC professionals is just a call away from getting your AC back up and running in no time.
To schedule an appointment, simply give us a call:
You can also reach out to us online to request our AC services. We understand how unbearable it can be without cooling in the Florida heat, so don’t wait – let us bring that refreshing coolness back to your home!