When it’s a hot summer day in Des Moines, nothing feels worse than registering your AC isn’t performing the way it should. The last thing you want to do is call for air conditioner repair. But your air conditioner is a pretty complicated system, so it can be difficult to find out what’s causing the problem without training.
That’s why Heartland Heating & Cooling made this guide to help you find out what might be happening with your AC. Below, you’ll find some typical situtations that explain why your house is feeling a little unpleasant. And though a few of these are easy] DIY projects, you could still need to bring in a skilled technician for AC repair.
And if you need us, Heartland Heating & Cooling is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Des Moines.
1. Your System Settings Are Incorrect
Everyone uses their thermostat a little differently to match their individual needs. Yet, a number of people make the misstep of setting their device to “On” instead of “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even when you’ve achieved your set temperature.
This can seem like your AC is distributing warmish air, when actually it’s only using the fan more often than necessary. Change this setting and find out if things change.
2. Your HVAC Needs a Good Cleaning
There are two central places to investigate for dirt or dust accrual when your cooling system doesn’t appear to be performing correctly.
Before anything else, check out your HVAC filter. If you don’t switch your filter on a regular basis, accumulated dirt can make it more difficult for air to flow through and lower the temperature your home. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time for a change. (And as a rule, you should change it about once every three months at a minimum.)
If your filter is looking fine, go to your outside unit. Double check there’s enough clearing around the unit and clear away plants or debris stuck there. This part of your system lets off the heat from your space. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be comfortable inside.
We recommend setting professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your unit operating smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.
3. Your System is Losing Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the material that conditions the air in your house. It moves between your indoor and external units to grab and discharge heat, to help your house keep the right temperature. If there is a leak along that system, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.
Indications of a refrigerant leak include a decrease in conditioned air, higher utility bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises coming from your HVAC.
If you are worried refrigerant might be leaking, call Heartland Heating & Cooling for air conditioner repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.
4. One or More Elements Need to Be Replaced
Your air conditioner is made up of a a handful of crucial elements. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one part is not working as it should, your home comfort is hurt.
Our Heartland Heating & Cooling pros are well-trained and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you find and fix any problem.
5. Your System Needs to Be Upgraded
If your equipment is more than 10 years old, it may be a good time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it just won’t run as well as it once did. And it could be making your house less comfortable.
If your AC is newer but still isn’t keeping you cool, it may be too small for your living space. HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. An AC that’s not big enough just can’t cool a space the way a properly sized system can.
Make a More Comfortable House with Heartland Heating & Cooling
You won’t have to waste a moment this summer in an uncomfortable house. When your AC isn’t functioning the way it should, bank on Heartland Heating & Cooling. We’re experts in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 515-344-3579 today.