When it’s a searing summer afternoon in Kankakee, nothing is worse than recognizing your air conditioner isn’t operating the way it was built to. The last thing you need to do is request cooling system help. But your AC is a quite complicated system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s triggering the problem without training.

That’s why Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating made this guide to help you understand what may be happening with your AC. From here, you’ll learn a couple common reasons your home is feeling uncomfortable. And though a few of these are easy] DIY activities, you may need to bring in an expert for AC repair.

And if you do, Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Kankakee.

1. Your Thermostat Settings Could Be Incorrect

Every home adjusts their thermostat a touch differently to work with their distinct preferences. Even so, a lot of people make the misstep of setting their device to “On” instead of “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to produce an air current even when you’ve achieved your preferred temperature.

This can feel like your system is pushing out warm air, when in reality it’s simply using the fan on a more regular basis than required. Change this setting and see if things seem better.

2. Your System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main areas to investigate for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t seem to be performing correctly.

Firstly, 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 labor intensive for air to move through and lower the temperature your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time to replace it. (And in general, you should replace it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter is looking good, move to your outdoor unit. Double check there’s a reasonable amount of space around it and clean up plants or dirt close by. This part of your cooling system lets off the heat from your house. If the coils outside are blocked, you won’t be comfortable in your home.

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

3. Your System is Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical that chills the air in your house. It runs between your indoor and outdoor units to grab and release heat, to help your home remain comfortable. If there is an opening along the way, you won’t be cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a decrease in chilled air, pricier utility expenses, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises arising from your air conditioner.

If you think refrigerant might be leaking, call Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Have to Be Replaced

Your AC contains a a handful of important 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 Furniture, Plumbing & Heating pros are certified and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you locate and mend any issue.

5. Your System Should Be Replaced

If your AC is more than 10 years old, it could likely be about 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 system is newer but still isn’t cooling things off, it might be the wrong size for your home. Air conditioners are not all the same. An AC that’s undersized just can’t help a house the way an appropriately sized air conditioner can.

Make a More Comfortable Home with Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating

You can’t blow a moment this summer in a hot space. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning the way it should, lean on Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating. We’re professionals in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 815-933-8213 now.