When it’s a hot summer morning in Greater Richmond, nothing feels worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you need to do is call for cooling system help. But your AC is a fairly complex system, so it can be difficult to find out what’s causing the issue on your own.

That’s why Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling wrote this guide to help you figure out what could be taking place with your cooling system. Below, you’ll discover a couple prevailing reasons your house is feeling too warm. And while a few of these are simple] DIY tasks, you might need to turn to a skilled technician for cooling system repair.

And if you need us, Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Greater Richmond.

1. Your Device Settings Could Be Off

Every home uses their thermostat a little differently to work with their individual preferences. Yet, a number of families make the error of setting their system to “On” rather than “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even when you’ve attained your preferred temperature.

This can look like your AC is distributing warm air, when actually it’s simply utilizing the fan more often than necessary. Try switching this setting and see if things seem better.

2. Your HVAC Needs a Good Cleaning

There are two main areas to investigate for dirt or dust buildup when your home comfort system doesn’t seem to be working well.

Before anything else, examine your system’s filter. If you don’t change your filter on a regular basis, accumulated dirt can make it more labor intensive for air to move through and lower the temperature your home. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s likely time to replace it. (And in general, you need to switch it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter seems fine, go to your outdoor unit. Make sure there’s a reasonable amount of space around your air conditioner and clean up plants or debris close by. This section of your system lets off the heat from inside your home. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling cool inside.

We recommend setting professional air conditioner maintenance each year to keep your equipment running smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your System is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air in your home. It cycles between your internal and external units to absorb and release heat, to help your space keep comfortable. If there is an opening along that system, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Signs of a refrigerant leak include a lack of cooled air, pricier monthly charges, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises coming from your AC.

If you suspect refrigerant might be leaking, call Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for AC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Should Be Replaced

Your AC includes a a handful of crucial pieces. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one part is broken, your home comfort is hurt.

Our Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling experts are certified and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you find and fix any problem.

5. Your Whole System Needs to Be Upgraded

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 older, it simply won’t run as well as it did in the beginning. And it could be making your space less comfortable.

If your air conditioner is newer but still isn’t cutting it, it might be undersized for your living space. HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. An AC that’s undersized absolutely can’t cool a house the way a correctly sized air conditioner can.

Create a More Comfortable Space with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

You shouldn’t blow a moment this summer in an unpleasant home. When your cooling system isn’t functioning correct, rely on Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. We’re professionals in AC repair. Contact us at 804-302-6657 right away.