If your air conditioner is running nonstop but your home still feels uncomfortably warm, odds are you’re feeling frustrated. You’re not alone — this is a frequent complaint among homeowners, especially during summer in the Wilmington area.
Today, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons why your AC might not be cooling your home effectively and provide some simple solutions. If the problem can’t be fixed with DIY methods, you can count on our team for professional AC services to restore comfort to your home.
Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling & How To Fix It
If your AC is running but failing to cool your house, understanding the cause of the issue can help you quickly troubleshoot and, ideally, resolve the problem. Here are the most common culprits:
Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
An air filter traps dust, dirt, and debris before they enter your AC system. Over time, however, the filter can become so clogged that airflow is restricted. When this happens, your air conditioner will struggle to cool your home. Thankfully, there’s a simple solution: replace your air filter. Air filters are relatively cheap and easy to change.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your air conditioner but your thermostat. If the settings are incorrect or the thermostat malfunctions, your AC may not cool your home properly. Double-check your thermostat’s settings, ensuring it’s set to “cool” and at your desired temperature. If your thermostat seems faulty or unresponsive, consider replacing its batteries or contacting a technician to inspect it.
Refrigerant Leak or Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the chemical your AC uses to remove heat from your home. If refrigerant levels are low — typically due to a leak — your AC can’t do its job. Signs of a refrigerant issue include:
- Hissing noises from your AC unit
- Ice forming on refrigerant lines
- Unusually high electric bills
Homeowners should not attempt to fix a refrigerant leak themselves. Contact a licensed HVAC technician to inspect the unit, repair leaks, and recharge your system.
Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils in your AC system absorb heat from your home’s air. Over time, these coils can become dirty or freeze up due to poor airflow or refrigerant issues. If the coils are dirty or frozen, your AC’s cooling capability diminishes significantly.
To resolve this, turn off your AC to allow coils to thaw if frozen, then clean the area around the unit to improve airflow. Regular AC maintenance is recommended to keep the coils in good working order.
Blocked Ducts
Cooled air can’t flow to your living spaces if your air ducts are blocked or leaking. The quickest way to check is by visually inspecting accessible ducts for signs of damage or blockages. Common causes include debris buildup and damage from pests. If this is the issue, you might need a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean your ducts.
Preventative Maintenance Tips To Keep Your AC Running Efficiently
Regular maintenance will improve the efficiency of your AC, extending its lifespan significantly. Incorporating simple practices into your home maintenance routine can save you time and money by reducing the frequency of emergency AC repair calls. Here are some essential tips:
- Regularly replace your air filter
- Keep your thermostat settings consistent
- Consider a smart thermostat to manage energy use
- Schedule annual professional tune-ups
- Keep your outdoor AC unit clear of debris
- Check and seal ducts as necessary
Don’t Wait: Call NC Quality Air for AC Repair Today
If you’ve tried these quick fixes and your AC is still not keeping you cool, it’s time to call in the professionals. NC Quality Air delivers prompt, reliable HVAC solutions to homeowners across Wilmington. With our same-day service guarantee, no overtime charges, licensed and certified technicians, and upfront pricing, you can count on us to restore comfort to your home quickly and affordably.
Contact our team today for a free estimate or to schedule AC repair in Wilmington!
