4 Things to Do When Your Air Conditioner Stops Cooling
Scheduling annual AC maintenance in spring is a great way to avoid unpleasant surprises. Many homeowners in Wheeling, IL will turn their cooling systems on this summer only to realize that it isn’t functioning as it should. If your air conditioner is failing to produce cold air, the following are four strategies that might solve the problem.
1. Get Rid of Airflow Obstructions
When air conditioners run but don’t have a noticeable impact on indoor temperatures, the most likely cause is airway obstruction. The first place to look is your AC air filter. If you forgot to change this component at the end of summer, it could be covered in a thick, impermeable mat of lint-like filth. Installing a new filter is a safe and simple troubleshooting measure.
However, you should also check for airflow obstructions at the outside condenser/compressor unit. Make sure that overgrown grass, shrubs, and trees aren’t blocking the unit. Remove all debris until there’s a minimum of two feet of clearance on every side. You should also check the air vents and air registers throughout your home to ensure that these features are clean as well.
2. Check Your Air Conditioner’s Condensate Drain
During their seasonal periods of dormancy, air conditioners tend to form mold and algae blooms within their condensate drains and drain pans. If there are visible growths in your AC’s condensate line, give us a call for an AC service. These obstructions can prevent air conditioners from cooling. They can even stop air conditioners from working entirely.
3. Have Your AC Coils Professionally Cleaned
Air conditioners use heat transfer to cool homes. Cold refrigerant in their coils absorbs heat and hot refrigerant releases this heat outside. Your air conditioner’s evaporator coil handles heat absorption and its condenser coil handles heat release. If either of these coils becomes too dirty, it affects heat transfer. The safest way to deal with dirty coils is to contact a professional.
4. Look for Leaky Air Ducts
It may be that your air conditioner is doing everything that it’s supposed to do. However, if your air ducts are leaky, much of the cold air that it’s producing is probably being deposited behind your drywall. If any of your exposed HVAC air ducts are crushed, torn, or riddled with other structural damage, you’ll need to schedule HVAC air duct repairs.
Troubleshooting vs. Repairing: Why You Should Never Perform a DIY Repair
There’s a major difference between performing basic troubleshooting measures and attempting to fix your own AC. DIY repairs can result in the loss of your manufacturer warranty. They can also compromise any AC protections provided by your home warranty and your home insurance. Without the proper knowledge and tools, you could make a minor problem much worse, or set the stage for serious health and safety issues.
We’re proud to be a trusted provider of heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services throughout Wheeling, IL, and the greater Chicagoland area. We also provide radiant heating, ductless mini-splits, and whole-house humidification/dehumidification equipment. To schedule service, contact CSL Climate Control Company today.
