When it’s a searing summer day in Cottonwood & Prescott, nothing feels worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t operating the way it is meant to. The last thing you want to do is call for air conditioner service. But your AC is a quite complicated system, so it can be almost impossible to find out what’s creating the problem solo.

That’s why Connolly Electric & Mechanical created this informational guide to help you figure out what could be happening with your cooling system. From here, you’ll see a couple common situtations that explain why your space is feeling a little unpleasant. And though some of these are simple] DIY projects, you could have to bring in a professional for AC repair.

And if you do, Connolly Electric & Mechanical is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Cottonwood & Prescott.

1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Off

Everyone uses their thermostat a touch differently to suit their personal requirements. However, many people make the mistake of setting their thermostat to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Because of this setting, the fan in your AC will continue to produce an air current even after you’ve reached your desired temperature.

This can look like your system is pushing out warm air, when really it’s simply employing the fan more often than necessary. Trying changing this setting and work out if things seem better.

2. Your System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two primary places to look for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t appear to be operating as it should.

First, examine your HVAC filter. If you don’t swap out your filter routinely, buildup can make it more labor intensive for air to flow through and cool down your home. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time to replace it. (And for best operation, you need to change it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter is looking clean, head to your outside unit. Make sure there’s enough clearing around the unit and clear away plants or litter stuck there. This section of your cooling system releases the heat from within your home. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable inside.

We recommend setting professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your system working properly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your System is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that chills the air in your space. It moves between your indoor and outdoor system elements to grab and release heat, to help your house stay comfortable. If there is a leak along that path, you won’t be cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a decrease in chilled air, more expensive utility bills, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises originating from your AC.

If you are worried refrigerant may be leaking, call Connolly Electric & Mechanical for AC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Parts Should Be Replaced

Your system contains a a handful of crucial pieces. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is not working as it should, your home comfort will suffer.

Our Connolly Electric & Mechanical pros are trained and experienced in HVAC. They can help you find and repair any trouble.

5. Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Updated

If your AC is older than 10 years old, it may be a good time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it sadly won’t run as well as it did in the beginning. And it may be making your house less comfortable.

If your system is on the younger side but still isn’t cooling things off, it may be the wrong size for your living space. HVAC systems are not all the same size. An AC that’s not big enough absolutely can’t help a house the way a correctly sized system can.

Find a More Comfortable Space with Connolly Electric & Mechanical

You won’t have to waste a moment this summer in an unpleasant space. When your air conditioner isn’t working the way it should, rely on Connolly Electric & Mechanical. We’re professionals in HVAC repair. Contact us at 928-251-4327 right away.