Central AC Not Cooling Enough? Here’s How to Fix It

When temperatures soar outside, many of us rely on one of life’s indispensable luxuries: central air conditioning (AC). But when it’s not cooling our homes effectively, it can be a headache. Problematic AC systems are never a pleasant surprise, especially during hot summers. Fortunately, investigating why your central AC isn’t cooling the house can be done relatively quickly and inexpensively.

Diagnosing the Problem

Before you can fix your central air conditioner, you have to pinpoint the exact source of the problem. There are many potential causes of an AC not cooling as efficiently as desired, such as leaky ductwork, weak insulation, or a refrigerant or airflow issue. Uncovering the precise culprit can be tricky if you don’t have the proper tools and expertise, but accurately diagnosing the root cause of the problem is essential for an effective repair.

Here are a few tips for diagnosing why your central AC system is not cooling the house to your satisfaction:

• Check the air filter. It’s typically a small amount of effort with potentially big results. When the air filter is clogged or dirty, it limits airflow and reduces the efficiency of your AC system.

• Take a look at the air handler. If your air filter is clean and working properly, your next step is to check out the air handler. This is the unit that houses the fan and the coil which cools the air. If the fan is set to low, it won’t move enough air to cool the house properly.

• Make sure all the vents are open. Troubleshoot specific rooms and zones in the house by checking that each vent is open and the dampers are fully adjusted, allowing proper airflow throughout the house.

• Inspect the thermostat. The control device for your AC system is the thermostat. If the house is not cooling, try to adjust it to a lower setting, as instruction permit. It should be set to “cool”, and powered by either a hard- or soft-wired electrical outlet.

• Monitor the outdoor unit. To make sure your outdoor fan is working, take a look at the outdoor unit. You should see the motor turning and hear the fan’s blades whirling.

Evaluating Repair Costs

Though fixing the problem may not require major work or expensive parts, an HVAC professional can save you time and money in the long run. Some of the more serious AC issues –– a clogged filter and a compressor malfunction –– require a qualified technician’s time and expertise.

Fees for diagnosing an AC problem vary depending on the size and complexity of the system and the individual contractor, but they generally range between $50 and $150. AC repair jobs, mean while, should have a work order that lists the parts to be replaced and the cost, but the complexity of the project and the size of the system dictate the total cost. Generally, if you compare the expense to replacing an entire system, which can cost thousands of dollars, it’s worth it to get the job done right the first time.

Scheduling Service Calls

If your central air conditioning isn’t cooling your home anymore and it’s time to bring on the professionals, selecting an HVAC contractor can be a challenge. Here’s what to look for when selecting a dependable, local and reliable contractor:

• Longevity: Look for companies and technicians that have been in the business for years.

• Quality assurance: A reliable HVAC company should have a clear and straightforward warranty and quality assurance program.

• Reviews and recommendations: Ask your friends and family for referrals and research online reviews.

• Professionalism and training: Professional, reputable companies will have appropriate certifications and a proven track record that demonstrates their commitment to customer service.

This lets you make an informed decision when selecting the right contractor to serve your needs.

When you find the right HVAC technician to address your central AC not cooling issue, they will be able to run a diagnostic check and tell you quickly what needs to be done to fix it. From there, they’ll be able to provide you with an estimate as well as an expected timeline for repair completion.

When your AC system isn’t cooling your home, it’s essential to act fast to keep your family safe and comfortable. And before you shop for a replacement system, it pays to contact a professional who can identify the root cause of the breakdown and –– hopefully –– provide you with long-term repairs.

At Local Reliable Appliance Repair, we make sure that you get the best care from the best contractors in town. Whether you’re facing minor or major room temperature issues due to central AC not cooling, our teams of experienced and friendly technicians are here to help. It all starts with a phone call away. Get in touch at (866) 311-8590 and let us get you back to comfortable living.

What Are Manufacturer Recommendations for Central AC Not Cooling Enough?

Having an air conditioner that is unable to cool your home causes a great deal of discomfort, not to mention a potentially expensive repair bill, if the issue is not addressed in a timely manner. To help avoid this unfortunate situation, it is important to observe a few preventive measures to keep your central AC running efficiently.

Unclog Dirt and Debris

Air conditioners are prone to collecting dirt, dust, and debris, which can clog the system and cause the unit to run inefficiently, resulting in inadequate cooling. To overcome this issue, it is recommended to clean the exterior of the unit with a vacuum wand to remove the debris, as well as blow out the interior of the unit with compressed air. Cleaning the air filters and making sure the outside unit is free of any plant growth (i.e. grass, shrubs, etc.) should be observed on a monthly basis or more frequently if applicable.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

To ensure that every component of the air conditioner is functioning correctly, it is essential to schedule regular maintenance checks with a reputable HVAC technician. During this inspection, the technician should perform a thorough examination of all the moving parts, inspect the wiring and control circuitry, and analyze the refrigerant levels to ensure proper operation. Following this inspection, the technician should be able to provide a list of any necessary repairs that may need to be completed in order to achieve optimum performance.

Properly Insulate the Unit

The AC unit should be properly insulated to prevent any heat transfer between the outside air and inside air. This can be accomplished by installing a vapor barrier around the unit, as well as adding additional insulation inside the unit to improve energy efficiency. In addition, any ductwork or other components should be adequately insulated in order to prevent any unwanted heat loss due to convective currents.

Check Coils

The evaporator and condenser coils are a critical component of the air conditioner and should be checked regularly in order to ensure that there is no accumulation of dust or debris. If any clogs are detected, the coils should be removed and cleaned. Regular cleaning of the coils ensures optimal efficiency, which will result in a more efficient cooling of the home.

Regularly Test the Thermostat

Another common issue that can affect central air conditioning systems is an improperly calibrated thermostat. To prevent this, it is beneficial to regularly check the thermostat and make sure that it is operating properly. If necessary, a dedicated HVAC technician should be consulted to calibrate the thermostat and ensure that it is providing the most efficient setting for cooling.

Contact Local Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating

If any of the above steps fail to resolve the air conditioning issue, it is highly recommended to contact a reliable air conditioning and heating specialist. A reputable local HVAC technician can examine the unit and detect any underlying issues that may be causing the problem. By enlisting the help of an experienced professional, you can ensure that any necessary repairs or replacements can be made in a timely and cost-effective manner.

In conclusion, taking the appropriate preventive action to ensure your central AC is operating correctly will help to reduce the risk of any unnecessary cooling issues that may arise in the future. Cleaning debris, scheduling regular maintenance checks, and testing the thermostat are just a few of the recommended steps that should be taken in order to maximize the performance of the system. If all else fails, contact a Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating specialist to examine the unit and identify any underlying issues that could be impacting its performance.

Advice on the Average Repair Cost for “Central AC Not Cooling Enough”

Most homeowners face the challenge of a central air conditioning system that’s not cooling enough. On average, the repair or installation cost is around 20% higher than what it was prior to the issue. Depending on the complexity of the job, prices in California can range from the minimum repair cost to a much higher complex repair or installation cost.

If the issue can’t be solved with a minor maintenance job, it may require the replacement of several parts. A few of these components include the filter, fan motor that can run on electricity, capacitors, and even the thermostat. Other potential parts could also need to be included, depending on the system’s age and brand. When dealing with a complex repair or installation, it’s always best to consult with a professional.

It’s also important to calculate the cost of materials needed for the job. This usually includes copper piping, ductwork, wires and even a wiring harness if necessary. Whenever possible, it’s best to have a trusted professional ac company to provide an itemized list of needed parts and materials. This will allow them to accurately estimate the repair cost and provide a detailed invoice.

Facing a situation with a central AC that’s not cooling enough can be an overwhelming and expensive situation. To ensure the best repair for an accurate cost, it’s important to contact a local and reliable air conditioning and heating specialist. A great choice is Local Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating at 866-311-8590. With their years of experience and fair rates, a homeowner can be sure to get an efficient and cost effective repair job.

Central AC Not Cooling Enough? Get Professional Help From Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating

When your central air conditioner isn’t cooling enough on hot summer days, you need help fast. That’s why it’s important to call the professionals at Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating.

Reliable is a family-owned California company offering same-day appointments. Their skilled technicians have a minimum of five years’ experience in the field. Whether you need an inspection, repair or installation, Reliable is the company for you.

Reliable offers fair and affordable prices for all their services. They are licensed, insured, and all repairs come with a 90-day warranty. You can trust Reliable to be your go-to winter or summer partner.

The company offers same-day services to avoid long wait times, and their technicians will diagnose and repair your central AC in the same day. The service is dependable, speedy and tailored to your needs.

Experience the convenience of 24/7 emergency services whenever your central AC isn’t cooling enough or when you need urgent repairs outside of regular business hours.

Booking your appointment with Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating is easy. Schedule it online or over the phone today and get your central AC back up and running in no time.

Don’t endure the heat any longer. Get your reliable and professional help from Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating and enjoy the cool breezes of summer again.

FAQ About Central AC Not Cooling Enough

What causes central AC not to cool enough?

Poor insulation, incorrect sizing, and blocked evaporator coils are all possible causes of an AC not cooling enough. If the internal temperature sensor is damaged, the cooling system may not operate properly.

How can I check for cooling issues?

Perform a visual inspection to check for any broken or blocked parts. If necessary, use a blower door test to check for poor insulation. Check the measurements of your AC unit too, as incorrect sizing can negatively impact air flow and coolness.

How to fix AC not cooling enough?

First, try resetting the AC and check filters. If this fails, inspect the heating unit, evaporator coils, and temperature sensor. The most effective way to fix a cooling issue is to call a qualified service technician.

When to call a repair service for AC not cooling enough?

If you’ve already tried resetting the AC, check filters, and inspected the AC unit, your next step should be to call a repair service. Experienced technicians can identify the cause quickly and provide reliable repairs.

For assistance with Central AC not cooling enough, call Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 311-8590.