When it’s a hot summer morning in Des Moines, nothing feels worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t performing the way it was built to. The last thing you should have to do is request cooling system repair. But your HVAC is a pretty intricate system, so it can be difficult to figure out what’s causing the problem solo.

That’s why Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling made this handbook to help you understand what may be happening with your cooling system. Below, you’ll see a couple typical situtations that explain why your home is feeling too warm. And even though a few of these are easy] DIY activities, you may need to turn to a pro for HVAC repair.

And if you need us, Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in Des Moines.

1. Your Device Settings Are Wrong

Every family uses their thermostat a bit differently to work with their specific requirements. Yet, a lot of people make the misstep of setting their device to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your AC will continue to produce an air current even when you’ve attained your set temperature.

This can feel like your vents are distributing untreated air, when actually it’s simply employing the fan more often than required. Try switching this setting and see if things change.

2. Your HVAC Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main places to investigate for dirt or dust accrual when your air conditioner doesn’t appear to be working as it should.

Firstly, take a look at your HVAC filter. If you don’t switch your filter on a regular basis, accumulated dirt can make it more difficult for air to pass through and lower the temperature your space. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time to replace it. (And for best operation, you need to switch it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter is looking clean, head to your outdoor unit. Double check there’s adequate space around the unit and clear away plants or litter stuck there. This piece of your cooling system lets off the heat from inside your home. If the coils outside are clogged, you won’t be feeling cool in your home.

We recommend scheduling professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your equipment running like it should and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical that conditions the air in your space. It cycles between your indoor and external units to soak up and release heat, to help your space keep comfortable. If there is a leak along that system, you won’t be feeling cool again until you schedule professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a drop in chilled air, more expensive electric charges, frozen evaporator coils and unusual hissing noises originating from your system.

If you are worried refrigerant may 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 Parts Need to Be Replaced

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

Our Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling technicians are certified and skilled in all areas of HVAC. They can help you find and fix any problem.

5. Your Air Conditioner Should Be Updated

If your AC is more than 10 years old, it may be a good time to think about new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it just won’t run as well as it did in the beginning. And it could be making your home uncomfortable.

If your system is newer but still isn’t cooling things off, it may be too small for your house. HVAC systems are not all the same size. A system that’s undersized simply can’t chill a home the way an appropriately sized HVAC can.

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

You won’t have to waste any time this summer in an uncomfortable space. When your air conditioner isn’t operating how it should, lean on Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling. We’re skilled in AC repair. Contact us at 515-278-2900 right away.