When it’s a searing summer day in Des Moines, nothing feels worse than registering your AC isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you should have to do is schedule air conditioner repair. But your AC is a quite intricate system, so it can be almost impossible to determine what’s causing the problem solo.

That’s why Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling made this guide to help you find out what might be taking place with your home comfort system. Below, you’ll find a few typical situtations that explain why your house is feeling a little too warm. And even though some of these are simple] DIY projects, you might have to bring in a professional for AC repair.

And if that’s the case, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your house in Des Moines.

1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Incorrect

Every person adjusts their thermostat a bit differently to match their specific preferences. Yet, many homeowners make the misstep of setting their thermostat to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your system will continue to blow even after you’ve attained your desired temperature.

This can seem like your vents are distributing untreated air, when actually it’s simply employing the fan on a more regular basis than necessary. Change this setting and find out if things change.

2. Your HVAC Needs a Good Cleaning

There are two main places to check for dirt or dust buildup when your AC doesn’t appear to be working well.

Firstly, examine your AC system’s filter. If you don’t change your filter often enough, built-up dust can make it more labor intensive for air to pass through and lower the temperature your house. If your filter is obviously dirty or dusty, it’s likely time to replace it. (And as a rule, you need to change it about once every three months at the very least.)

If your filter appears clean, head to your outdoor unit. Find out if there’s a reasonable amount of space around it and clean up plants or litter stuck there. This piece of your cooling system releases the heat from within your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable indoors.

We recommend setting 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 substance that conditions the air in your home. It runs between your internal and outdoor system pieces to absorb and discharge heat, to help your home stay comfortable. If there is a leak along that path, you won’t be feeling cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a drop in conditioned air, pricier utility bills, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises originating from your air conditioner.

If you are worried refrigerant could be leaking, call Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling for system 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 is made up of a couple essential elements. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is broken, your home comfort will suffer.

Our Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling experts are well-trained and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you locate and repair any trouble.

5. Your System Has to Be Replaced

If your equipment is older than 10 years old, it may be time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it unfortunately won’t function as well as it did in the beginning. And it might be making your home uncomfortable.

If your air conditioner is on the younger side but still isn’t keeping you cool, it could be the wrong size for your home. HVAC systems are not all the same. An AC that’s not big enough just can’t chill a home the way an appropriately sized AC can.

Find a More Comfortable Home with Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling

You won’t have to blow time this summer in a hot home. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning how it should, turn to Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling. We’re experts in air conditioner repair. Contact us at 515-207-6569 today.