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What To Do If Your AC Isn't Cooling, And Why It's Happening

24 May 2022

Abbie Wade

Let's face it—there are times when your air conditioner just doesn't seem to be working. Here are handy AC troubleshooting tips on what to do and what not to do if your AC isn't cooling.

Rule Out the Obvious

First, rule out the obvious. Check the thermostat setting, and make sure it's set at a comfortable temperature.

If that doesn't work and your AC still isn't cooling, check for any visible leaks in the system. Look for damp carpeting, moisture on walls or windows, or water dripping from vents. These are signs of a leaky refrigerant line or condenser coil — problems that need immediate attention from a qualified professional.

Next, check your filters for blockages and clean them if necessary. Make sure there are no obstructions on top of the unit, like leaves or other debris that could block airflow into vents or ducts. Be sure all intake vents aren't blocked by furniture or other objects as well.

You can also check your thermostat to see if it needs replacing; some older models don't work as efficiently as modern ones do when it comes to saving energy and keeping your home cool without running constantly.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is probably the first thing that people think of when their AC unit isn't working properly. If the temperature on the thermostat is set too low or too high, it can cause the AC to run constantly without cooling properly. If your thermostat is set on a lower setting, the compressor won't be able to run long enough to cool your home adequately. If you have an older model thermostat, it may not allow for more than one fan speed—which could also cause problems with cooling if the fan speed isn't set right.

Listen to the AC

You also need to listen to the air conditioner. If it's making a clicking or knocking sound, then there's probably something wrong with the compressor. This could be as simple as a belt that needs replacing or as serious as an internal problem with your compressor. The best way to tell is by listening closely.

If everything sounds normal and there's no unusual noise coming from your unit, then it could be dirty filters or vents that are causing the problem. Filters should be changed frequently, which depends on how much time they spend outside or in dusty areas like garages, attics, and crawl spaces. Vents can also fill up with dust over time, which prevents proper airflow through them and causes problems with heating and cooling systems. 

If your AC isn't cooling, don't panic. Contact an AC repair service to get the help you need with repairs.

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