When it’s a hot summer afternoon in Pella, nothing could be worse than recognizing your AC isn’t working the way it is meant to. The last thing you need to do is request air conditioner service. But your air conditioner is a pretty complex system, so it can be almost impossible to figure out what’s creating the trouble on your own.

That’s why Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating made this handbook to help you see what might be going on with your cooling system. Below, you’ll see some typical explanations for why your home is feeling uncomfortable. And though a few of these are straightforward] DIY tasks, you could need to call in a professional for HVAC repair.

And if you need us, Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Pella.

1. Your System Settings Could Be Off

Every person adjusts their thermostat a little differently to match their personal preferences. Yet, a number of families make the mistake of setting their system to “On” instead of “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even once you’ve achieved your desired temperature.

This can look like your vents are pushing out warm air, when actually it’s simply employing the fan more frequently than required. Try switching this setting and find out if things cool off.

2. Your System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two central places to look for dirt or dust accumulation when your home comfort system doesn’t seem to be operating as it should.

Firstly, check out your HVAC filter. If you don’t switch your filter on a regular basis, built-up dust can make it more difficult for air to pass through and lower the temperature your space. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time for a change. (And in general, you have to replace it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter seems good, head to your outdoor unit. Find out if there’s enough space around your air conditioner and clean up plants or dirt stuck there. This section of your system discharges the heat from your space. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be feeling cool indoors.

We advise setting professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your system operating like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your AC is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that conditions the air in your house. It runs between your internal and external system elements to soak up and release heat, to help your home keep cool. If there is an opening along the way, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signs of a refrigerant leak include a drop in conditioned air, pricier monthly charges, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises arising from your AC.

If you are worried refrigerant may be leaking, call Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating for AC 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 includes a few crucial elements. 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 Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating experts are certified and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you diagnose and repair any trouble.

5. Your AC Should Be Updated

If your system is over 10 years old, it is probably time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it just won’t work as well as it did in the beginning. And it might be making your space uncomfortable.

If your system is more current but still isn’t properly cooling your home, it could be undersized for your house. HVAC systems are not all the same size. A system that’s undersized simply can’t chill a place the way a correctly sized HVAC can.

Create a More Comfortable House with Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating

You can’t blow time this summer in a hot home. When your cooling system isn’t working how it should, rely on Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating. We’re experts in AC repair. Contact us at 641-628-3621 now.