5 Reasons Why Your AC Runs But Doesn’t Cool Your Home

Why Your Home AC Is Ineffective

​If your AC runs all the time, but the thermostat doesn’t go below 80, you are probably throwing money out the window. An ineffective HVAC increases your utility bills and makes you uncomfortable and grumpy when it’s hot. Here are five reasons your AC might not be cooling your home.

You Have a Dirty Air Filter

You should check your air filter monthly and change it when it gets dirty. When the filter is dirty, your AC doesn’t get enough airflow to do a good job at cooling your home. If you have pets or poor air quality, your filter might need to be changed every month, but at the very least, you should install a new filter every three months. You’ll breathe better and your AC will run better. 

The Outside AC Unit Is Dirty

​The outside condensing unit blows the hot air out of your home. When the condenser is dirty and covered with grass or leaves, it can’t operate efficiently. Cleaning up the outside unit will make your system run better and cool your house more effectively. Make sure nothing blocks the airflow around your unit. 

Your AC Is Too Small For Your Home

​Your air conditioner may not be the right size for your home. It’s possible that the installers didn’t determine the correct size before installation. Maybe you added on to the home or enclosed the porch, expecting the AC to work properly. You might just need a bigger air conditioner with additional cooling capacity. 

Your AC Is Low on Refrigerant

​The refrigerant in the AC is what cools the air. Refrigerant doesn’t get used up, but if your AC develops a leak, you will have a problem. You will need a AC repair technician to fix the leak, because it must be done by a licensed technician. Just refilling the refrigerant won’t work, because it will continue to leak out until the hole is fixed, too. 

Your Air Ducts Aren’t Sealed Properly

​The air ducts carry the cooled air throughout the house. If your ductwork is leaky, you might be cooling the attic instead of your living room. Alternatively, your home may have too many drafts. Check around the doors, windows, vents and electrical outlets to see if hot air is coming into your home and allowing the cool air to leak out. Don’t block vents in other rooms for maximum efficiency. Your AC relies on the blower pushing out air into every room. When you close a vent, the blower runs at a lower speed, which means you have less air coming out. It will take longer to cool your home. 

Fix Your Air Conditioner Today

​If your AC unit isn’t cooling effectively, you may get better results by installing a new filter or cleaning up the unit. If you need help troubleshooting your AC issues, let us help.
 
Next Level HVAC serves Sonoma and Marin Counties with expert AC service. To get a quote for AC repair, contact us at 707-228-9921 or use our online form. Follow our blog to learn more about keeping your home cool all year long.