Understanding Why Your AC Isn't Getting Cold

Ever experienced the disappointment of turning on your air conditioner only to feel warm air instead of the cool relief you were expecting? Or even no airflow at all? Considering that the main purpose of AC units is to keep us cool, this problem can be pretty frustrating. Unfortunately, it's a common issue with AC units. Various factors, from aging equipment to faulty parts, can disrupt their performance.

If your AC isn't cooling properly, it's time to consider repairs. Here, we'll delve into the leading causes of airflow problems in AC units, such as:

• An overworked or aging system
• Lack of maintenance
• A thermostat malfunction
• Electrical issues
• Blocked condenser coils
• A refrigerant problem

In this blog, we'll take a closer look at these issues and what to do when your air conditioner won't get cold.

Is your AC not as cold as usual?

Contact the experts at Four Seasons for an AC repair. Since 1979, our NATE-certified technicians have supported locals with high-quality, honest, and reliable HVAC services. You can trust us to identify problems and restore your comfort.

If your air conditioner is experiencing problems, the first factor you should consider is age. Like many appliances, AC units deteriorate over time. In addition to a lack of cold air, you might notice poorer air quality, decreased efficiency, and higher monthly bills.

Most AC units last between 10 and 15 years. Typically, if your unit is over 10 years old, it's better to replace it. Although new installations have higher upfront costs, they help save money in the long run by providing better cooling.

Another common cause of AC airflow issues is a lack of maintenance. In general, homeowners should receive a professional tune-up at least once a year. During this maintenance check, the technicians will look for problems that may negatively impact cooling abilities.

Not only does maintenance reduce the risk of major repairs, but it's also essential to keep your warranties valid. If repairs arise, many manufacturers will only offer coverage if you've received annual tune-ups by professional HVAC technicians. At Four Seasons, we offer thorough AC maintenance services designed to keep you cool and comfortable all year round.

While poor airflow is often linked to repair problems, it can also be caused by a more minor issue: clogged air filters. Your unit's filters prevent debris and pollutants from circulating throughout your home. However, over time, they can become clogged, eventually blocking airflow. During a standard tune-up, the technicians will check the filters and, if necessary, exchange them.

At times, issues with AC cooling stem from problems with the thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature settings of your air conditioner. If it fails to communicate the desired temperature effectively, your AC won't be able to deliver cold air.

To troubleshoot the thermostat, begin by checking its settings. Ensure the fan is set to AUTO; if it's set to ON, your AC will keep blowing uncooled air continuously. Next, confirm that the display is functioning properly and that you can adjust the temperature settings. If everything appears to be in order, the thermostat is likely not the source of the problem.

Is your air conditioner experiencing frequent shutdowns or failing to turn on altogether? If so, you might be facing electrical problems, such as a blown fuse or faulty wiring. Given the potential hazards associated with electricity, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional to inspect your wiring.

One common culprit technicians check when troubleshooting cooling issues is the condenser coils. In most air conditioning systems, the condenser coils are located in the outdoor unit, often referred to as the condenser unit or condenser. These coils are crucial in absorbing heat from the refrigerant and dispersing it outdoors. Over time, they can accumulate dirt, debris, and even vegetation, obstructing their function and diminishing cooling efficiency.

Sometimes, simply cleaning the area surrounding the condenser coils can help restore performance. However, severe blockages may lead to damage that necessitates replacing the condenser coils altogether.

Alongside inspecting the condenser coils, it's crucial to assess the refrigerant. Refrigerant is the fluid essential for the cooling process in your AC system. If there are leaks or if the refrigerant levels are insufficient, your cooling performance will suffer.

At Four Seasons, our NATE-certified technicians boast extensive expertise in diagnosing and addressing AC cooling issues. Once we identify the problem, you can rely on us to provide effective solutions.

If you're dealing with an AC that won't get cold, our team is here to help. After a preliminary evaluation, we can determine the root of the problem and perform the necessary AC repairs. With every job, we promise good, old-fashioned service and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.