When it’s a warm summer afternoon in Norton, nothing feels worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you want to do is request AC service. But your air conditioner is a pretty complicated system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s causing the problem on your own.

That’s why HCE Systems wrote this handbook to help you find out what may be going on with your cooling system. Below, you’ll discover some typical explanations for why your space is feeling too warm. And while a couple of these are easy] DIY projects, you may have to bring in a pro for air conditioner repair.

And if that’s the case, HCE Systems is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Norton.

1. Your System Settings Are Wrong

Every home uses their thermostat a little differently to suit their individual preferences. However, a lot of homeowners make the error of setting their thermostat to “On” instead of “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your system will continue to produce an air current even when you’ve reached your preferred temperature.

This can look like your system is pushing out warm air, when in reality it’s only utilizing the fan on a more regular basis than required. Change this setting and see if things cool off.

2. Your Home Comfort System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main spaces to look for dirt or dust accrual when your air conditioner doesn’t appear to be operating as it should.

First, check out your system’s filter. If you don’t switch your filter often enough, buildup can make it hard for air to pass through and lower the temperature your home. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s likely time to replace it. (And as a rule, you should replace it about once every three months at the very least.)

If your filter is looking good, go to your outdoor unit. Double check there’s enough room around the unit and clear away plants or litter stuck there. This piece of your cooling system releases the heat from your space. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable in your home.

We suggest setting professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your unit operating like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that chills the air in your house. It moves between your internal and outdoor system elements to absorb and let off heat, to help your house keep cool. If there is a crack along the way, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you book professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a decline in cooled air, pricier electric bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises originating from your AC.

If you think refrigerant may be leaking, call HCE Systems for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Need to Be Replaced

Your AC is made up of a a handful of crucial parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is broken, your home comfort is hurt.

Our HCE Systems experts are trained and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you locate and fix any problem.

5. Your AC Needs to Be Updated

If your AC is older than 10 years old, it may be a good time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it simply won’t work as well as it did in the beginning. And it may be making your space uncomfortable.

If your AC is on the younger side but still isn’t cooling things off, it might be too small for your living space. AC units are not all the same size. A system that’s not big enough just can’t help a space the way an appropriately sized air conditioner can.

Get a More Comfortable Home with HCE Systems

You won’t have to lose time this summer in an unpleasant home. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning how it should, bank on HCE Systems. We’re experts in AC repair. Contact us at 276-302-0076 right away.