It’s been a warm summer across Oregon, and many homeowners are relying on their air conditioning system to keep them cool and comfortable. But for some, the cooling system just isn’t keeping up like it should. If you’ve noticed that your AC is running but the temperature indoors doesn’t quite reach the desire thermostat setting, it might be struggling to do its job. Keep reading to see what the most common reasons are for an AC slowdown and how you can fix it.
Dirty Air Filters:
When was the last time you cleaned or replaced your air filters? Air filters have an important job: trapping and capturing debris, pet hair, dust, and other airborne particles – and if they aren’t cleaned or replaced regularly, they can get clogged. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and is one of the most common causes of poor cooling performance. Not to mention, it causes your system to work harder, which increases wear and tear on the machine and could lead to a premature mechanical breakdown. To boost efficiency and ensure your system runs at peak performance, we recommend cleaning or replacing your air filter every one to two months.
Dirty Outdoor Unit:
Take a look at the exterior AC unit. Is there debris build up? If there are leaves, dirt, grass, or other material on or around the machine, it can’t release the heat removed from your home. Make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit and if there is debris, gently rinse it with water. If more thorough cleaning is needed, call our team of professionals at Specialty Heating and Cooling. Don’t try to scrub or take anything apart, as this could cause damage.
Leaks:
Your air conditioner might be working great, but if the ductwork is leaky, that precious cool air will leak out. Even the best functioning AC system will struggle if hot outdoor air seeps in. The first step is to check around your windows and doors to ensure things are weather-stripped appropriately.
Broken Thermostat:
Check to make sure your thermostat is set to cool and the temperature is set lower than your home’s current temperature. Replace the batteries on the thermostat as well. If things aren’t working after these two simple resets, you may have a problem with the thermostat and not the air conditioner itself. If the thermostat is broken or simply outdated, we can help upgrade your thermostat to one that’s programmable. These are affordably priced and can save a significant amount on energy costs annually.
Most of all, don’t ignore any warning signs that your AC might be giving you. If you notice the airflow is weak, the machine is making unusual sounds or has some strange odors come out of it, or if it’s simply not blowing cool air, it’s best to have it professionally inspected. One small issue could lead to an expensive repair if you ignore it. To help prevent unexpected breakdowns, remember to schedule your routine maintenance appointment, too! These appointments are the best way to clean crucial internal components, identify any worn or broken pieces, and check energy efficiency levels.
Ready to schedule your maintenance appointment? Need a repair? Or maybe it’s time to replace your unit. Our outstanding team at Specialty Heating and Cooling is waiting to help you. So, contact us today!