When it’s a hot summer day in Columbia, nothing could be worse than recognizing your AC isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you should have to do is call for cooling system repair. But your AC is a fairly complex system, so it can be hard to figure out what’s triggering the trouble on your own.

That’s why Watts Electric & AC created this informational guide to help you find out what may be taking place with your AC. Below, you’ll see a few common explanations for why your house is feeling a little unpleasant. And while a couple of these are simple] DIY tasks, you might still need to turn to a skilled technician for air conditioner repair.

And if that’s the case, Watts Electric & AC is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Columbia.

1. Your System Settings May Be Wrong

Every home adjusts their thermostat a little differently to match their personal needs. Yet, a number of people make the mistake of setting their thermostat to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even when you’ve achieved your preferred temperature.

This can seem like your vents are distributing warm air, when in reality it’s only using the fan more frequently than necessary. Try switching this setting and see if things change.

2. Your HVAC Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main places to check for dirt or dust buildup when your home comfort system doesn’t seem to be performing correctly.

Firstly, examine your HVAC filter. If you don’t change your filter routinely, buildup can make it hard for air to pass through and cool your space. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time for a change. (And as a rule, you need to change it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter seems good, head to your external unit. Make sure there’s a reasonable amount of space around your air conditioner and clean up plants or debris stuck there. This section of your system lets off the heat from within your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable in your home.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your system operating properly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that conditions the air in your house. It runs between your inside and external units to grab and let off heat, to help your home keep the right temperature. If there is a leak along that system, you won’t be comfortable again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a lack of chilled air, more expensive utility charges, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises coming from your AC.

If you think refrigerant could be leaking, call Watts Electric & AC for system repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be hazardous to your family’s health.

4. One or More Elements Have to Be Replaced

Your AC contains a couple crucial pieces. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is failing, your home comfort suffers.

Our Watts Electric & AC pros are certified and experienced in HVAC. They can help you find and fix any problem.

5. Your Air Conditioner Should Be Updated

If your equipment is more than 10 years old, it may be time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it simply won’t function as well as it has in the past. And it could be making your house uncomfortable.

If your air conditioner is more current but still isn’t properly cooling your home, it could be too small for your living space. HVAC systems are not all the same size. An AC that’s not big enough simply can’t cool a house the way a correctly sized AC can.

Make a More Comfortable Home with Watts Electric & AC

You shouldn’t waste a moment this summer in an uncomfortable space. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning correct, turn to Watts Electric & AC. We’re professionals in AC repair. Contact us at 601-736-7362 now.