As the summer heat intensifies, your air conditioner (AC) becomes your best ally against the sweltering temperatures. However, when you find your AC taking longer to cool your house, it can be both frustrating and concerning.
At Clements Plumbing Heating & Air, we understand the importance of a well-functioning AC system. Let’s delve into the top five reasons why your AC unit might be underperforming.
1. AC Unit Is Too Small for Your Home's Square Footage
The size of your AC unit is crucial to its efficiency. An undersized AC unit struggles to cool a larger space effectively. It's like trying to fill a swimming pool with a garden hose – it takes significantly longer.
An AC unit is designed to cater to a specific square footage. If your home’s square footage exceeds the unit's capacity, it will take longer to cool the space. An evaluation by professionals will reassure you that your AC system is appropriately sized for your home.
2. You Have Leaky Ductwork and Clogged Air Filter
Your AC unit’s ductwork is the circulatory system of your home's cooling. Leaks in the ductwork can lead to significant loss of cooled air.
Similarly, a clogged air filter leads to airflow problems and forces your AC unit to work harder and longer to circulate air. Regular maintenance, including sealing ductwork leaks and replacing air filters, can significantly improve your AC unit's performance.
3. There's Dirt Trapped In Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils in your AC unit play a vital role in the heat exchange process. Over time, these coils can become dirty, hindering their ability to absorb heat effectively.
This inefficiency can result in your AC taking longer to cool your house. Schedule cleaning of these coils to maintain your AC unit's cooling efficiency. ENERGY STAR specifically recommends cleaning the evaporator coils before the onset of warm weather to ensure your AC system operates at peak efficiency during summer months.
4. You Have Blocked or Clogged Registers
The registers in your home, through which cool air flows, can sometimes become blocked or clogged. Furniture, drapes, or even dust and debris can obstruct these airways, leading to uneven cooling and longer cooling times. Keeping these air pathways clear and clean is vital for maintaining consistent and efficient airflow in your home.
5. There's a Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. A refrigerant leak is a serious issue that can drastically reduce your AC unit's cooling ability.
Refrigerant leaks cause your system to take longer to cool your house and can also lead to more significant system damages if not addressed promptly. Prompt professional intervention is needed to fix any refrigerant leaks and prevent further complications.
Need To Book HVAC Services?
At Clements Plumbing Heating & Air, we bring over 50 years of experience to ensure that your AC unit runs efficiently, keeping your home comfortable even in the peak of summer. Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and efficiency of your cooling system.
Get the most out of your AC system, call our experts at (417) 682-3797.
