When it’s a hot summer afternoon in Elk River, nothing feels worse than registering your home comfort system isn’t working the way it is meant to. The last thing you want to do is request AC help. But your air conditioner is a pretty intricate system, so it can be hard to find out what’s creating the issue solo.

That’s why Home Comfort Heating & Air created this guide to help you find out what could be happening with your home comfort system. From here, you’ll learn a few typical situtations that explain why your space is feeling too warm. And though some of these are easy] DIY activities, you might have to call in a pro for AC repair.

And if that’s the case, Home Comfort Heating & Air is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in Elk River.

1. Your Thermostat Settings Could Be Off

Every person uses their thermostat a little differently to match their distinct preferences. Even so, many people make the mistake of setting their system to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your system will continue to produce an air current even once you’ve attained your preferred temperature.

This can feel like your AC is distributing untreated air, when really it’s simply using the fan more frequently than necessary. Try switching this setting and find out if things cool off.

2. Your Cooling System Needs Some Cleaning

There are two central places to look for dirt or dust buildup when your air conditioner doesn’t seem to be performing as it should.

Firstly, take a look at your HVAC filter. If you don’t switch your filter often enough, built-up dust can make it more difficult for air to pass through and lower the temperature your house. If your filter is obviously dirty or dusty, it’s probably time for a change. (And for best operation, you have to replace it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter appears good, go to your outdoor unit. Find out if there’s adequate room around the unit and clear any plants or dirt close by. This section of your AC discharges the heat from your home. If the coils outside are clogged, you won’t be feeling comfortable in your home.

We suggest booking professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your unit running like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your AC is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that chills the air in your space. It cycles between your inside and outdoor system elements to grab and let off heat, to help your house remain comfortable. If there is an opening along the way, you won’t be feeling comfortable again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a lack of chilled air, more expensive utility expenses, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises coming from your HVAC.

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

4. One or More Pieces Should Be Replaced

Your air conditioner is made up of a couple essential parts. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is failing, your home comfort suffers.

Our Home Comfort Heating & Air technicians are well-trained and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you diagnose and repair any issue.

5. Your Whole System Needs to Be Updated

If your system is older than 10 years old, it may be a good time to research new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it sadly won’t work as well as it once did. And it may be making your space less comfortable.

If your HVAC unit is more current but still isn’t cutting it, it may be the wrong size for your home. Air conditioners are not one-size-fits-all. An air conditioner that’s not powerful enough just can’t chill a house the way a properly sized HVAC can.

Create a More Comfortable Space with Home Comfort Heating & Air

You won’t have to lose time this summer in an uncomfortable house. When your AC isn’t working how it should, rely on Home Comfort Heating & Air. We’re skilled in HVAC repair. Contact us at 763-276-0617 today.