When it’s a hot summer morning in Jefferson, nothing feels worse than registering your AC isn’t performing the way it is supposed to. The last thing you want to do is schedule cooling system help. But your air conditioner is a pretty complicated system, so it can be difficult to find out what’s creating the trouble without training.

That’s why Pratt Brothers created this handbook to help you figure out what could be going on with your home comfort system. Below, you’ll see a couple typical situtations that explain why your home is feeling uncomfortable. And even though some of these are simple] DIY tasks, you might have to call in a pro for AC repair.

And if that’s the case, Pratt Brothers is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Jefferson.

1. Your Device Settings May Be Wrong

Every family uses their thermostat a bit differently to work with their distinct needs. Even so, many people make the mistake of setting their device to “On” rather than “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to produce an air current even once you’ve attained your preferred temperature.

This can appear like your ducts are distributing warmish air, when in reality it’s just utilizing the fan more often than needed. Trying changing this setting and see if things cool off.

2. Your System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two central spaces to check for dirt or dust accumulation when your cooling system doesn’t seem to be operating correctly.

First, take a look at your AC system’s filter. If you don’t swap out your filter often enough, buildup can make it more difficult for air to flow through and cool down your home. If your filter is noticeably dirty or dusty, it’s probably time to replace it. (And in general, you need to switch it about once every three months at a minimum.)

If your filter is looking clean, head to your outside unit. Find out if there’s enough clearing around it and clear away plants or debris stuck there. This section of your cooling system discharges the heat from your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be comfortable inside.

We recommend scheduling professional air conditioner maintenance each year to keep your equipment running like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your house. It moves between your indoor and outside system pieces to grab and let off heat, to help your space remain the right temperature. If there is a crack along that system, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Signs of a refrigerant leak include a lack of cooled air, more expensive monthly expenses, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises originating from your system.

If you suspect refrigerant may be leaking, call Pratt Brothers for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Parts Need to Be Replaced

Your system includes a few important 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 Pratt Brothers technicians are certified and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you locate and repair any problem.

5. Your System Needs to Be Replaced

If your system is over 10 years old, it is probably about time to think about new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it simply won’t function as well as it has in the past. And it could be making your house too warm.

If your air conditioner is more current but still isn’t keeping you cool, it might be the wrong size for your living space. HVAC systems are not all the same. An air conditioner that’s not powerful enough simply can’t chill a place the way a correctly sized air conditioner can.

Find a More Comfortable House with Pratt Brothers

You shouldn’t waste a moment this summer in an unpleasant house. When your air conditioner isn’t operating the way it should, lean on Pratt Brothers. We’re skilled in HVAC repair. Contact us at 920-347-8495 right away.