As the summer heat intensifies in Texas,, your air conditioner becomes a lifeline for comfort. However, you may notice your AC struggling to keep your home cool, leaving you sweltering in the heat. Understanding why your AC is underperforming can help you take steps to restore its efficiency with repairs or maintenance and enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long.
Common Reasons Your AC Is Struggling
Dirty Air Filters
A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons for an underperforming AC. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering your home’s air.
However, over time, these filters become clogged, restricting airflow. This causes your AC to work harder and longer to cool your home, leading to increased energy consumption and wear and tear on the system. To prevent this, check your air filters monthly and replace them as needed.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is essential for your AC to cool your home. If there is a leak, your AC won’t have enough refrigerant to absorb and release heat effectively.
Signs of a refrigerant leak include warm air blowing from your vents, hissing noises, and ice buildup on the refrigerant line. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s crucial to call a professional AC technician for repairs, as handling refrigerants requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
Dirty Coils
The evaporator coil inside your home and the condenser coil outside play critical roles in cooling it. When these coils become coated with dirt and grime, their ability to absorb and release heat diminishes.
This reduces the efficiency of your AC and forces it to work harder. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the coils, can prevent this issue and keep your AC running efficiently.
Inadequate Insulation
Your home’s insulation plays a vital role in maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. If your home is poorly insulated, cool air can escape, and warm air can enter, making your AC work overtime to keep your home comfortable. Inspect your insulation at least once a year and consider upgrading it to improve energy efficiency and reduce the strain on your AC.
Blocked Vents and Registers
Blocked or closed vents and registers can impede airflow, causing uneven cooling and making your AC work harder to keep all your home’s rooms cool. Ensure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed by furniture, curtains, or other objects. This will allow for proper airflow and more efficient cooling.
Aging AC Unit
No matter how well you maintain your AC, it will become less efficient as it ages. Most AC units have a lifespan of 15-20 years. If your system is nearing or past this age range, it might be time to consider a replacement. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can provide better cooling performance.
How to Improve Your AC’s Efficiency
With summer here, we want to give you some extra tips for improving your AC’s efficiency this season because it will be a scorcher!
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC in top condition. Professional technicians can inspect thoroughly, clean essential components, and identify potential issues before they become major problems. Schedule an annual maintenance checkup to ensure your AC is ready to tackle the summer heat.
In the meantime, don’t forget to check your air filtration and change out the filters as needed.
Seal Air Leaks
Check for and seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork. Air leaks can allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter, reducing your AC’s efficiency. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or other sealants to close these gaps and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat can optimize your cooling schedule and reduce energy consumption. These devices allow you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring your AC runs only when needed. This can lead to significant energy savings and a more comfortable home.
Stay Cool This Summer With Area Wide Services
If your air conditioner struggles to keep up with the summer heat, trust the professionals at Area Wide Services to provide the solutions you need. Our expert team is committed to delivering top-notch service and ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment. Let us help you beat the heat and enjoy a worry-free summer!