When it’s a warm summer morning in Mount Hope, nothing feels worse than registering your home comfort system isn’t operating the way it should. The last thing you want to do is schedule AC help. But your AC is a pretty intricate system, so it can be difficult to find out what’s creating the problem solo.

That’s why Appalachian Heating created this informational guide to help you figure out what may be happening with your home comfort system. Below, you’ll see some typical reasons your home is feeling uncomfortable. And while a few of these are straightforward] DIY tasks, you might have to bring in a professional for AC repair.

And if you do, Appalachian Heating is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Mount Hope.

1. Your Device Settings Are Wrong

Everyone uses their thermostat a bit differently to match their specific requirements. Yet, a lot of homeowners make the misstep of setting their system to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Because of this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even when you’ve achieved your set temperature.

This can appear like your ducts are distributing warm air, when actually it’s simply utilizing the fan more often than necessary. Try switching this setting and see if things change.

2. Your AC Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main places to check for dirt or dust accumulation when your AC doesn’t appear to be working as it should.

Before anything else, take a look at your system’s filter. If you don’t switch your filter on a regular basis, accumulated dirt can make it more labor intensive for air to flow through and cool your house. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time for a change. (And in general, you need to switch it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter is looking clean, head to your external unit. Double check there’s enough space around the unit and clear away plants or debris close by. This section of your cooling system discharges the heat from your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable indoors.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance each year to keep your system operating smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air in your home. It cycles between your inside and outdoor system elements to soak up and let off heat, to help your home stay comfortable. If there is a leak along that system, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signs of a refrigerant leak include a lack of conditioned air, pricier utility expenses, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises arising from your HVAC.

If you are worried refrigerant might be leaking, call Appalachian Heating for system repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Should Be Replaced

Your air conditioner includes a few important parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is not working as it should, your home comfort will suffer.

Our Appalachian Heating technicians are well-trained and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you locate and fix any issue.

5. Your System Has to Be Updated

If your system is older than 10 years old, it could likely be time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system ages, it sadly won’t work as well as it did in the beginning. And it may be making your space too warm.

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

Find a More Comfortable Home with Appalachian Heating

You won’t have to blow any time this summer in a hot house. When your AC isn’t working how it should, rely on Appalachian Heating. We’re experts in HVAC repair. Contact us at 304-707-0600 right away.