Are you struggling with an air conditioning unit that is underperforming, particularly when it comes to cooling your home below 80 degrees Fahrenheit? You’re not alone! Many homeowners encounter this frustrating problem, especially during the hot summer months. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the possible reasons behind this issue and how to fix it. So, if you’re tired of losing the battle against the sweltering heat, keep reading!
1. Inadequate Cooling Capacity And Size
A. Capacity Limitations Of Your Unit
The first possible reason why your air conditioner is not cooling effectively is that it’s not powerful enough for your cooling needs. Sometimes, homeowners may unknowingly purchase a unit with insufficient cooling capacity. Here are some factors that can impact the capacity needed for your home:
- Square footage of the space
- Insulation and building material
- Number of windows and doors
- Climate and geographical location
- Home’s orientation and exposure to sunlight
- Number of occupants and home appliances
B. Choosing The Right Size Of Air Conditioner
If you suspect that the capacity of your air conditioner is insufficient for your home, you may need to upgrade it to the right size. Have a professional HVAC technician perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size and capacity for your home. This ensures that your new unit is neither too small (unable to cool efficiently) nor too large (short cycling and excess humidity).
Note: Installing an oversized air conditioner is not a viable solution, as it cools down space too quickly, causing short cycles, which can lead to premature wear and tear and higher energy consumption.
2. Poor Maintenance And Care
A. Dirty Air Filters
A dirty or clogged air filter can severely impact your air conditioner’s ability to cool your home efficiently. When the air filter is filled with dirt and debris, it restricts airflow, making the unit work harder without producing the desired results. To ensure that your air conditioner performs optimally, replace or clean your air filter at least once every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
B. Clogged Condenser Coils
The condenser coils in your air conditioner are responsible for dissipating heat and cooling the refrigerant. If they are clogged with dirt or debris, the system becomes less efficient as it struggles to cool down the refrigerant. Scheduling regular maintenance and cleaning can help avoid this problem and ensure better cooling of your home.
C. Obstructed Outdoor Unit
The outdoor component of your air conditioning system, usually located in your yard or on the side of your house, also needs proper care and maintenance. Remove any obstructions, such as leaves, branches, or other debris from around the outdoor unit. This allows for better airflow and improves the overall performance and efficiency of the system.
3. Technical Problems And Issues
A. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is a vital component in the cooling process, as it absorbs the heat from the indoor air. If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, it may not effectively cool your home. This could occur due to inadequate initial charging, refrigerant leaks, or improper maintenance. It’s best to reach out to a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve this issue, as refrigerants can be hazardous and should be handled by experts.
B. Faulty Thermostat
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the air conditioner itself but rather with your thermostat. If your thermostat is not functioning properly, it may not signal your air conditioner to start cooling. First, ensure that your thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature setting is below the current room temperature. If the issue persists, consider seeking help from an HVAC technician to troubleshoot and potentially replace your thermostat.
C. Damaged Or Leaky Ductwork
Your home’s ductwork plays a crucial role in delivering cool air throughout the space. If the ducts are damaged, disconnected, or leaking, the cool air may not reach its intended destination, causing uneven cooling performance. Regular maintenance and inspection by a professional can help identify and resolve ductwork problems, consequently improving the efficiency of your air conditioning system.
Conclusion
Your air conditioner not cooling the house below 80 degrees may be caused by a variety of factors, including improper sizing, poor maintenance, or technical issues. However, there’s no need to suffer through the heat! By properly maintaining your air conditioning system, consulting with a professional HVAC technician to ensure the correct capacity and size, and addressing any additional technical problems, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home on even the hottest of days.
