When it’s a searing summer day in West Jefferson, nothing feels worse than registering your AC isn’t working the way it is supposed to. The last thing you should have to do is call for AC service. But your AC is a quite intricate system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s creating the problem solo.

That’s why West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. made this guide to help you understand what might be going on with your cooling system. Below, you’ll find some common reasons your space is feeling a little unpleasant. And though a couple of these are straightforward] DIY tasks, you could need to turn to a pro for HVAC repair.

And if that’s the case, West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in West Jefferson.

1. Your Thermostat Settings Could Be Off

Every person adjusts their thermostat a touch differently to suit their specific needs. However, a number of homeowners make the misstep of setting their thermostat to “On” rather than “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even when you’ve reached your desired temperature.

This can look like your system is pushing out warmish air, when really it’s just employing the fan more often than needed. Try switching this setting and find out if things change.

2. Your Home Comfort System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two primary spaces to check for dirt or dust buildup when your air conditioner doesn’t feel like it is operating correctly.

Before anything else, examine your HVAC filter. If you don’t switch your filter on a regular basis, accumulated dirt can make it hard for air to flow through and cool down your home. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s probably time for a change. (And in general, you need to switch it about once every three months at the very least.)

If your filter appears good, go to your external unit. Make sure there’s adequate room around it and clear away plants or debris close by. This section of your system releases the heat from within your house. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be comfortable inside.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your system working like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your System is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that conditions the air in your space. It cycles between your inside and outdoor system pieces to grab and release heat, to help your house remain comfortable. If there is a crack along the way, you won’t be comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signs of a refrigerant leak include a decline in conditioned air, more expensive electric expenses, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises originating from your air conditioner.

If you suspect refrigerant might be leaking, call West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. for air conditioner repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Have to Be Replaced

Your AC contains a few important parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is broken, your home comfort will suffer.

Our West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. technicians are well-trained and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you locate and fix any trouble.

5. Your AC Should Be Replaced

If your equipment is more than 10 years old, it could likely be a good time to think about new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it simply won’t run as well as it once did. And it may be making your space uncomfortable.

If your HVAC unit is on the younger side but still isn’t keeping you cool, it could be undersized for your living space. AC units are not one-size-fits-all. An AC that’s undersized absolutely can’t cool a house the way a correctly sized HVAC can.

Find a More Comfortable Space with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.

You won’t have to waste any time this summer in an unpleasant home. When your AC isn’t functioning how it should, lean on West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.. We’re skilled in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 614-879-9091 today.