When it’s a warm summer day in Lincoln, nothing feels worse than recognizing your home comfort system isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you want to do is call for cooling system service. But your air conditioner is a quite complex system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s creating the trouble on your own.

That’s why AW Heating & Air Conditioning wrote this guide to help you see what may be happening with your AC. Here, you’ll see a couple common explanations for why your home is feeling uncomfortable. And though a few of these are simple] DIY tasks, you might still need to bring in a professional for HVAC repair.

And if you need us, AW Heating & Air Conditioning is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in Lincoln.

1. Your Thermostat Settings Could Be Incorrect

Every family uses their thermostat a bit differently to match their individual needs. However, many people make the mistake of setting their device to “On” rather than “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even once you’ve achieved your preferred temperature.

This can seem like your system is distributing untreated air, when in reality it’s just utilizing the fan more often than necessary. Trying changing this setting and work out if things change.

2. Your Home Comfort System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two central places to check for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t appear to be operating as it should.

Firstly, take a look at your HVAC filter. If you don’t swap out your filter on a regular basis, buildup can make it hard for air to move through and cool down your home. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s likely time for a change. (And in general, you should replace it about once every three months at the very least.)

If your filter appears fine, move to your outdoor unit. Double check there’s adequate clearing around it and clear away plants or dirt close by. This part of your AC lets off the heat from within your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable indoors.

We suggest booking professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your unit running like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that conditions the air in your home. It moves between your inside and outdoor system elements to soak up and discharge heat, to help your space stay comfortable. If there is an opening along the way, you won’t be feeling cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a decrease in chilled air, more expensive monthly bills, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises originating from your HVAC.

If you think refrigerant might be leaking, call AW Heating & Air Conditioning for AC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be hazardous to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Have to Be Replaced

Your AC is made up of a a handful of crucial parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is broken, your home comfort is hurt.

Our AW Heating & Air Conditioning experts are certified and experienced in HVAC. They can help you find and mend any trouble.

5. Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Upgraded

If your system is older than 10 years old, it is probably time to think about new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it unfortunately won’t function as well as it did in the beginning. And it may be making your house less comfortable.

If your air conditioner is newer but still isn’t keeping you cool, it may be the wrong size for your house. HVAC systems are not all the same. A system that’s not powerful enough absolutely can’t help a house the way a properly sized air conditioner can.

Create a More Comfortable Home with AW Heating & Air Conditioning

You shouldn’t lose time this summer in an uncomfortable space. When your air conditioner isn’t working the way it should, bank on AW Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re skilled in HVAC repair. Contact us at 402-438-7992 today.