When it’s a searing summer morning in Wilmington, nothing feels worse than realizing your home comfort system isn’t performing the way it is supposed to. The last thing you need to do is request AC service. But your air conditioner is a quite complicated system, so it can be hard to figure out what’s triggering the issue without training.

That’s why Brandywine Heating & Air created this informational guide to help you figure out what might be happening with your AC. From here, you’ll discover a few common reasons your space is feeling a little unpleasant. And while a couple of these are straightforward] DIY projects, you may have to turn to a pro for cooling system repair.

And if you do, Brandywine Heating & Air is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in Wilmington.

1. Your System Settings Are Wrong

Every person adjusts their thermostat a little differently to match their individual preferences. Yet, a lot of homeowners make the error of setting their thermostat to “On” instead of “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your system will continue to push out air even once you’ve achieved your set temperature.

This can look like your system is distributing warm air, when really it’s just utilizing the fan more often than required. Trying changing this setting and see if things cool off.

2. Your Home Comfort System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two main spaces to check for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t feel like it is operating as it should.

First, check out your HVAC filter. If you don’t change your filter routinely, buildup can make it more labor intensive for air to move through and cool your space. If your filter is obviously dirty or dusty, it’s probably time for a change. (And for best operation, you need to replace it about once every three months at a minimum.)

If your filter is looking clean, move to your outdoor unit. Find out if there’s a reasonable amount of space around the unit and clear away plants or litter close by. This section of your system releases the heat from within your space. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling cool indoors.

We suggest setting professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your unit working smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your AC is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that conditions the air in your house. It cycles between your internal and external units to grab and release heat, to help your home stay comfortable. If there is a leak along the way, you won’t be cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a drop in chilled air, higher monthly bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises originating from your AC.

If you suspect refrigerant may be leaking, call Brandywine Heating & Air 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 air conditioner is made up of a couple important parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is failing, your home comfort is hurt.

Our Brandywine Heating & Air pros are trained and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you diagnose and repair any trouble.

5. Your Whole System Should Be Updated

If your system is more than 10 years old, it is probably about time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it just won’t function as well as it once did. And it could be making your home too warm.

If your system is on the younger side but still isn’t properly cooling your home, it may be too small for your house. Air conditioners are not one-size-fits-all. An AC that’s not powerful enough just can’t chill a space the way an appropriately sized air conditioner can.

Find a More Comfortable House with Brandywine Heating & Air

You can’t blow time this summer in an uncomfortable space. When your air conditioner isn’t working the way it should, turn to Brandywine Heating & Air. We’re skilled in HVAC repair. Contact us at 302-261-3596 right away.