5 Reasons Your AC Is Struggling in the Summer Heat

Prevention is the best cure for air conditioning (AC) issues during the summer. 

If your central AC struggles to maintain comfort in your Northern Ohio home, it is time to let a professional administer a little TLC. An annual maintenance checkup can turn your energy-gobbling unit into an energy-efficient powerhouse.  

Gene’s Refrigeration, Heating & Cooling, Plumbing & Electric can help your air conditioner wrap up the summer cooling season in top condition. Our qualified technicians will perform a 21-point inspection on your AC and identify repair needs. 

Gene’s Protection Plan offers four tiers of maintenance service, discounts on parts, repairs, warranties, and more. Our reminder service will ensure you never miss scheduling another AC tune-up. 

When your air conditioner works at peak performance, it removes heat and moisture, leaving you feeling comfortable and refreshed in your Brunswick home. A malfunctioning air conditioner affects your comfort and uses more energy to cool your home. 

Reasons Your AC Is Struggling

Here’s a list of reasons explaining why your AC may struggle and what you can do to improve its efficiency :

1. Dirty Filter
   
   A filter clogged with dust and other debris can restrict airflow to your AC and cause it to work harder while trying to cool your home. You might notice the system stays on much longer to achieve the temperature setting on your thermostat. The cool air coming from your ductwork vents may feel weak. Your AC unit might overheat.
   
   A dirty filter can worsen indoor air quality (IAQ), allowing particles to circulate through your home. It also may increase your monthly electricity bill.
   
   You can prevent air filter-related problems by replacing your air filter when it is dirty. Inspect it monthly and replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   
2. Dirty Outdoor Unit
   
   A dirty compressor unit can hamper your system’s ability to release heat. Remove weeds, shrubs, and other plants that grow too close to the compressor cabinet and restrict airflow. Avoid leaning garden tools and other items against the unit or placing anything on it.
   
   Turn your AC off and use a garden hose with a gentle spray to rinse dirt off the inside and outside of the cabinet.  Do not bend the fins that assist with airflow.
3. Too Old
   
   No matter how well you maintain your air conditioner, it will work less efficiently as it nears the end of its service life. It may struggle to cool your Brunswick home if it is on its last legs.
   
   Well-maintained air conditioners typically last 10 to 15 years. Consider replacing your AC unit if it is older than 10 years.
   
   You can count on us at Gene’s Refrigeration, Heating & Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical to recommend the best cooling system for your budget and comfort needs.
   
4. Refrigerant Leak
   
   If the refrigerant level in your AC system is low, it likely leaks. Your equipment will struggle to cool your home without enough refrigerant. The unit may take longer than usual to achieve the temperature set on your thermostat and may not remove moisture from the air.
   
   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends an indoor humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. Consistently high humidity levels can lead to mold growth. Mold can jeopardize your health and damage your home.
   
   Call us if your AC is hissing, sending lukewarm air throughout your home, or losing the battle against excessive humidity. One of our pros will diagnose the problem, repair it, and have your air conditioner running again in no time. 

1. Dirty Coils
   
   When your AC runs, its refrigerant enters the indoor unit in a cold, liquid state. It passes through the evaporator coil and absorbs heat from indoor air. A blower fan sends the cooled air into your ductwork and out of its vents. Moisture extracted from the air is left on the coils and runs into a condensate drain.
   
   Dust and other debris on the evaporator coil interfere with its ability to cool and remove moisture from the air. If the outdoor condenser coil is dirty, it may struggle when releasing the heat from the refrigerant.
   
   Make coil cleaning a part of your preventative maintenance tasks. Simply schedule a visit with one of our qualified technicians so we can take care of it for you!

Talk to the AC Experts

Why spend the rest of the summer feeling hot and uncomfortable in your Brunswick, OH, home? Ask one of our experts at Gene’s Refrigeration, Heating & Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical for assistance with your struggling air conditioner. Call us at 330-238-8441 or request service online.