When it’s a searing summer day in Frederick, nothing feels worse than realizing your air conditioner isn’t working the way it is meant to. The last thing you should have to do is schedule cooling system service. But your HVAC is a quite complex system, so it can be hard to find out what’s triggering the problem without training.

That’s why May's Heating & Air created this handbook to help you figure out what might be taking place with your home comfort system. Below, you’ll learn a couple typical reasons your home is feeling a little too warm. And while some of these are straightforward] DIY tasks, you might still need to bring in an expert for HVAC repair.

And if you need us, May's Heating & Air is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Frederick.

1. Your System Settings May Be Off

Everyone sets their thermostat a touch differently to match their specific needs. Even so, many people make the misstep of setting their system to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Because of this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even once you’ve attained your preferred temperature.

This can seem like your AC is pushing out warm air, when really it’s simply employing the fan more frequently than required. Change this setting and see if things change.

2. Your Cooling System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two primary areas to check for dirt or dust accumulation when your air conditioner doesn’t appear to be working well.

Before anything else, examine your system’s filter. If you don’t swap out your filter often enough, built-up dust can make it more difficult for air to pass through and cool your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time for a change. (And as a rule, you need to switch it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter appears fine, go to your external unit. Make sure there’s adequate clearing around your air conditioner and clear away plants or dirt stuck there. This piece of your system discharges the heat from inside your space. If the coils outside are clogged, you won’t be feeling comfortable inside.

We recommend booking professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your system running smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your System is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that chills the air in your space. It cycles between your inside and outdoor system pieces to absorb and let off heat, to help your home remain comfortable. If there is a leak along that path, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a decline in conditioned air, more expensive electric bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises arising from your HVAC.

If you think refrigerant may be leaking, call May's 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 contains a couple crucial parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is broken, your home comfort is hurt.

Our May's Heating & Air technicians are certified and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you diagnose and repair any problem.

5. Your System Has to Be Upgraded

If your AC is older than 10 years old, it is probably about time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it sadly won’t run as well as it once did. And it may be making your house too warm.

If your HVAC unit is on the younger side but still isn’t cooling things off, it could be too small for your home. HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. An air conditioner that’s undersized just can’t chill a place the way an appropriately sized air conditioner can.

Make a More Comfortable Home with May's Heating & Air

You won’t have to lose time this summer in an unpleasant house. When your AC isn’t operating correct, bank on May's Heating & Air. We’re skilled in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 301-690-0397 now.