When it’s a warm summer morning in Northridge, nothing feels worse than recognizing your home comfort system isn’t working the way it is meant to. The last thing you need to do is schedule cooling system service. But your HVAC is a fairly intricate system, so it can be almost impossible to find out what’s triggering the issue solo.

That’s why Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating created this guide to help you see what may be taking place with your cooling system. Here, you’ll see some prevailing explanations for why your home is feeling uncomfortable. And even though a couple of these are simple] DIY activities, you might have to turn to a skilled technician for AC repair.

And if that’s the case, Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Northridge.

1. Your System Settings May Be Incorrect

Every home sets their thermostat a bit differently to suit their individual preferences. However, a number of people make the mistake of setting their system to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your system will continue to produce an air current even once you’ve reached your preferred temperature.

This can feel like your AC is distributing warm air, when in reality it’s simply employing the fan on a more regular basis than needed. Try switching this setting and work out if things seem better.

2. Your Cooling System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two primary areas to investigate for dirt or dust accrual when your air conditioner doesn’t seem to be performing correctly.

First, take a look at your system’s filter. If you don’t swap out your filter on a regular basis, built-up dust can make it more difficult for air to move through and lower the temperature your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s likely time for a change. (And for best operation, you should change it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter appears clean, head to your external unit. Make sure there’s a reasonable amount of clearing around it and clear any plants or litter close by. This section of your cooling system discharges the heat from your house. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be feeling comfortable indoors.

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

3. Your System is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that cools the air in your space. It moves between your inside and external system pieces to grab and discharge heat, to help your space keep the right temperature. If there is a leak along the way, you won’t be cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a lack of cooled air, more expensive utility charges, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises originating from your HVAC.

If you think refrigerant might be leaking, call Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating for system repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Parts Have to Be Replaced

Your system contains a a handful of important pieces. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one part is broken, your home comfort will suffer.

Our Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating pros are certified and experienced in HVAC. They can help you diagnose and mend any issue.

5. Your Air Conditioner Needs to Be Upgraded

If your AC is over 10 years old, it may be a good time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system ages, it unfortunately won’t function as well as it once did. And it may be making your home uncomfortable.

If your AC is newer but still isn’t cutting it, it could be undersized for your house. HVAC systems are not all the same. An AC that’s not big enough just can’t chill a space the way an appropriately sized system can.

Get a More Comfortable Home with Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating

You shouldn’t waste time this summer in an unpleasant house. When your cooling system isn’t functioning how it should, turn to Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating. We’re professionals in AC repair. Contact us at (818) 727-9993 now.