When it’s a searing summer afternoon in Sandpoint, nothing could be worse than realizing your home comfort system isn’t operating the way it is meant to. The last thing you want to do is call for AC service. But your AC is a pretty complex system, so it can be almost impossible to determine what’s triggering the trouble solo.

That’s why Age Heating & Cooling wrote this guide to help you see what might be going on with your AC. Below, you’ll discover some typical explanations for why your house is feeling uncomfortable. And even though some of these are easy] DIY projects, you may need to call in an expert for air conditioner repair.

And if that’s the case, Age Heating & Cooling is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Sandpoint.

1. Your System Settings Could Be Off

Every home uses their thermostat a little differently to suit their distinct requirements. Even so, a number of families make the error of setting their system to “On” instead of “Auto.” Because of this setting, the fan in your AC will continue to push out air even once you’ve achieved your set temperature.

This can feel like your ducts are pushing out warm air, when actually it’s just employing the fan on a more regular basis than needed. Trying changing this setting and find out if things change.

2. Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two central areas to look for dirt or dust accumulation when your AC doesn’t appear to be operating as it should.

Firstly, take a look at your HVAC filter. If you don’t swap out your filter routinely, accumulated dirt can make it more difficult for air to flow through and lower the temperature your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s probably time for a change. (And as a rule, you need to change it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter is looking good, move to your outside unit. Make sure there’s adequate clearing around it and clear any plants or litter stuck there. This section of your cooling system discharges the heat from within your space. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be comfortable inside.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your system operating like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your AC is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that conditions the air in your home. It moves between your indoor and outdoor system pieces to absorb and let off heat, to help your space stay cool. If there is an opening along that path, you won’t be comfortable again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

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

If you suspect refrigerant might be leaking, call Age Heating & Cooling for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be hazardous to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Need to Be Replaced

Your system is made up of a a handful of essential elements. 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 Age Heating & Cooling technicians are well-trained and experienced in HVAC. They can help you diagnose and mend any problem.

5. Your Whole System Has to Be Updated

If your equipment is older than 10 years old, it is probably a good time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it just won’t function as well as it has in the past. And it could be making your house too warm.

If your system is more current but still isn’t cooling things off, it might be too small for your living space. AC units are not one-size-fits-all. An AC that’s not powerful enough simply can’t cool a space the way a correctly sized HVAC can.

Get a More Comfortable House with Age Heating & Cooling

You won’t have to lose a moment this summer in an uncomfortable space. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning correct, lean on Age Heating & Cooling. We’re professionals in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 208-603-2210 right away.