When it’s a hot summer day in Libertyville, nothing feels worse than recognizing your air conditioner isn’t operating the way it should. The last thing you want to do is schedule air conditioner repair. But your HVAC is a pretty complex system, so it can be almost impossible to determine what’s causing the problem solo.

That’s why TopTec wrote this informational guide to help you understand what may be happening with your cooling system. Below, you’ll see a few common explanations for why your house is feeling too warm. And while some of these are easy] DIY tasks, you might need to bring in an expert for AC repair.

And if you do, TopTec is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Libertyville.

1. Your Thermostat Settings Are Off

Every home uses their thermostat a touch differently to work with their personal preferences. Yet, a lot of homeowners make the mistake of setting their device to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even after you’ve reached your desired temperature.

This can seem like your AC is pushing out untreated air, when in reality it’s only utilizing the fan on a more regular basis than necessary. Change this setting and find out if things cool off.

2. Your HVAC Needs Some Cleaning

There are two central areas to check for dirt or dust buildup when your air conditioner doesn’t appear to be performing as it should.

Before anything else, examine your system’s filter. If you don’t change your filter routinely, buildup can make it more difficult for air to pass through and cool your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s probably time to replace it. (And as a rule, you need to switch it about once every three months at the very least.)

If your filter is looking clean, go to your outside unit. Find out if there’s a reasonable amount of room around the unit and clear away plants or debris close by. This part of your cooling system lets off the heat from inside your home. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be feeling cool indoors.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your unit operating properly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your System is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that chills the air in your house. It moves between your indoor and outdoor units to absorb and discharge heat, to help your house remain the right temperature. If there is an opening along the way, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a decline in cooled air, higher electric expenses, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises arising from your system.

If you are worried refrigerant may be leaking, call TopTec for air conditioner repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Parts Should Be Replaced

Your AC is made up of a couple crucial parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one part is not working as it should, your home comfort suffers.

Our TopTec technicians are certified and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you locate and repair any trouble.

5. Your AC Has to Be Replaced

If your system is more than 10 years old, it is probably about time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system ages, it sadly won’t run as well as it once did. And it may be making your home uncomfortable.

If your system is more current but still isn’t cutting it, it might be too small for your living space. AC units are not all the same. A system that’s not big enough just can’t chill a home the way a properly sized AC can.

Get a More Comfortable Space with TopTec

You won’t have to lose a moment this summer in a hot space. When your cooling system isn’t operating the way it should, turn to TopTec. We’re skilled in HVAC repair. Contact us at 847-362-0262 today.