Just Because Your AC is Warmer Doesn't Mean It's Broken: Common Reasons and Solutions

As the scorching summer heat sets in, there's nothing more comforting than stepping into a cool, air-conditioned room. However, what happens when your AC doesn't seem to be providing the chill you expect? Before jumping to conclusions and assuming your AC is broken, it's crucial to understand that there could be several reasons why your air conditioner might not be functioning optimally. Let’s explore common causes for a warmer AC and offer some simple solutions to address the issue without panicking.  

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

One of the most common reasons for a warmer AC is simply incorrect thermostat settings. It's not uncommon for someone in the household to accidentally adjust the temperature, switch the setting from "cool" to "fan-only," or set the thermostat to a higher temperature than desired. Before calling a technician, double-check your thermostat settings and ensure it's on the right cooling mode and set to your desired temperature.

Clogged Air Filters

Clogged or dirty air filters can significantly impede the airflow and efficiency of your air conditioner. When the air filters are blocked by dust, dirt, or debris, they restrict the amount of cold air entering the room, resulting in a warmer environment. Regularly inspect your AC's air filters and clean or replace them as necessary (usually every one to three months) to maintain optimal performance.

Blocked Condenser Unit

The condenser unit is a vital component of your air conditioning system, responsible for releasing heat to the outside. It is located outside the home. If it's obstructed by leaves, or other objects, it can't expel heat efficiently, leading to reduced cooling. To remedy this, inspect the condenser unit (the large metal box outside your house) regularly to clear any obstructions around it that might be restricting airflow. Advanced tip: do not put a tent or umbrella over your AC condenser unit to create shade. It will impede airflow and make your system inefficient. 

Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the substance responsible for cooling the air in your AC system. If there's a refrigerant leak or if the AC was not properly charged during installation or maintenance, the refrigerant levels might be low. This leads to a decrease in cooling performance, causing the air to feel warmer. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it's essential to call a professional HVAC technician to identify and fix the issue safely.

Inadequate Insulation

Poor insulation in your home can significantly impact the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Insufficient insulation allows cold air to escape from the room, making it harder for the AC to maintain a comfortable temperature. Consider whole home weatherization services to improve insulation around windows, doors, and walls to retain cool air and reduce the strain on your air conditioner. Many energy companies offer rebates and discounts for improving your home’s green footprint. 

Overworked AC Unit

During the peak of summer, especially in areas with extreme heat, your air conditioner might struggle to keep up with the demand for cooling. Running the AC continuously without giving it a break can overwork the unit, leading to reduced performance. Consider giving your AC periodic rest intervals or investing in a programmable thermostat to regulate cooling cycles efficiently. 

Extreme Outdoor Temperatures

Most HVAC systems are made to condition a space at 75 degrees indoors and 99-100 degrees outdoors. When we have summer days that reach 104-106 degrees outdoors, the system has trouble efficiently dissipating heat. This causes the system’s capacity to decrease, no longer with the ability to cool the space as quickly. In most cases, once the outdoor temperature drops the system will get back to working as it should and cycle on and off. 

My AC is Still Not Cooling

After investigating the common issues that may be causing insufficient cooling, it's best to seek professional help from a qualified HVAC technician. They can diagnose and fix complex issues, ensuring that your AC is in excellent condition to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the sweltering summer months. 

Austin HVAC Repair and Installation

We know that reliability and experience is important when choosing a qualified Austin HVAC technician to work on your home for HVAC problems. At Stan’s, our HVAC technicians are fully insured and licensed  with years of experience. We prioritize emergency calls, and try our best to get someone to your home the same day, in the case of an emergency. We stand behind our team with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. When you hire Stan’s, you can rest easy knowing that your AC and heater are in the hands of reliable and knowledgeable HVAC technicians. We will also provide options to fit your schedule and budget, plus we come with thousands of five-star reviews from happy customers. Call Stan’s today for top-notch HVAC services, including replacement, and AC Repair in Austin, TX!