7 possible reasons your AC is not cooling properly

Is your air conditioner failing you when you need it most? With record-breaking heat waves gradually becoming the norm, a sluggish AC is more than an inconvenience; it’s miserable. Making sure your AC is cooling properly and efficiently can go a long way in keeping you comfortable in the summers. In this guide, we’ll explain 7 possible reasons why your AC might be acting up, so you can fix it and get back to cool comfort.

7 possible reasons behind AC not cooling properly

If you feel your air conditioner isn’t cooling as well as it used to, here are seven possible reasons why:

1. Clogged air filter

One of the most common culprits behind reduced cooling capacity is a dirty air filter.

ALSO READ: How to clean your air conditioner

A clogged filter restricts airflow, impairing the AC’s ability to pull in warm air and release cool air. Making sure to clean the filter at regular intervals is essential for optimal performance.

2. Grimy condenser coil

Another possible reason could be a dirty condenser coil. Located outside, the condenser coil dissipates heat from the refrigerant, not the cooled air. Dirt, leaves, or debris can block the coil, reducing its ability to transfer heat and thus making the AC work harder. Cleaning and removing the debris from the condenser coil can result in a significant increase in overall performance.

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3. Low refrigerant level

The real workhorse behind cooling in an air conditioner is the refrigerant. This coolant absorbs heat from the air inside your home. A leak can cause the refrigerant level to drop, and over time, it can also naturally decrease, thus weakening the AC’s cooling capacity. If you suspect a leak or notice a significant decrease in cooling performance, call a qualified technician for repair.

4. Frozen evaporator coil

Less common, but still possible, is a frozen evaporator coil. This indoor coil, responsible for cooling the air, can freeze over if the AC runs too cold or airflow is restricted. This prevents the coil from absorbing heat from warm air, reducing cooling efficiency. To thaw a frozen coil, turn off the AC completely and switch the fan to “on” to circulate air. If the ice doesn’t melt within a few hours or the problem persists, consult a qualified technician.

5. Thermostat malfunction

The thermostat controls the AC’s temperature. A malfunctioning thermostat might send incorrect signals, causing the AC to run inefficiently or not at all. 

6. Compressor failure

The compressor is a vital component that pumps refrigerant throughout the system. If it fails, the entire cooling process is disrupted. If you suspect a compressor issue because your AC isn’t turning on at all or keeps tripping the breaker, you will require a technician’s diagnosis and repair to deal with compressor problems.

7. Undersized AC unit

Lastly, it could also come down to an AC unit that’s simply too small for the space, struggling to keep it cool enough. This can happen for two reasons: your home’s square footage might have increased through additions or renovations, or you might be living in a climate that’s much hotter than the one your AC was designed for.  When choosing a new AC unit, it’s crucial to consider both the size of your room and your local climate to ensure optimal cooling performance.

These are just some common reasons why your AC might not be cooling properly. If the issue persists after you’ve checked everything, consider contacting the brand service technician.