When it’s a searing summer morning in Los Angeles, nothing is worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t performing the way it is meant to. The last thing you want to do is call for AC repair. But your HVAC is a pretty complicated system, so it can be difficult to determine what’s causing the problem solo.

That’s why AZ Air Conditioning and Heating wrote this guide to help you understand what may be happening with your home comfort system. From here, you’ll discover some common explanations for why your space is feeling too warm. And while a couple of these are simple] DIY projects, you could need to bring in a professional for air conditioner repair.

And if you need us, AZ Air Conditioning and Heating is prepared to take care of your home. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your residence in Los Angeles.

1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Off

Every home sets their thermostat a little differently to work with their individual needs. Yet, a lot of families make the mistake of setting their thermostat to “On” rather than “Auto.” With this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to push out air even after you’ve achieved your preferred temperature.

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

2. Your AC Needs Some Cleaning

There are two central places to look for dirt or dust accrual when your AC doesn’t feel like it is operating correctly.

Before anything else, check out your AC system’s filter. If you don’t swap out your filter routinely, built-up dust can make it more difficult for air to flow 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 should switch it about once every three months at least.)

If your filter seems good, move to your outside unit. Find out if there’s enough space around your air conditioner and clear any plants or litter stuck there. This part of your cooling system releases the heat from inside your space. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be comfortable inside.

We suggest setting professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your unit working smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Losing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that cools the air in your home. It runs between your internal and outside system pieces to grab and release heat, to help your home stay cool. If there is a leak along that path, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a decline in chilled air, more expensive electric expenses, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises coming from your system.

If you suspect refrigerant could be leaking, call AZ Air Conditioning and Heating for system repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Parts Have to Be Replaced

Your AC contains a a handful of essential elements. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If one of these is not working as it should, your home comfort will suffer.

Our AZ Air Conditioning and Heating experts are certified and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you find and mend any trouble.

5. Your Whole System Should Be Upgraded

If your system is over 10 years old, it could likely be time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets older, it sadly won’t work as well as it once did. And it could be making your space too warm.

If your HVAC unit is on the younger side but still isn’t cutting it, it might be too small for your home. HVAC systems are not all the same. An air conditioner that’s not big enough just can’t help a house the way a properly sized system can.

Get a More Comfortable House with AZ Air Conditioning and Heating

You won’t have to waste any time this summer in a hot house. When your AC isn’t functioning correct, rely on AZ Air Conditioning and Heating. We’re skilled in AC repair. Contact us at 800-296-5088 now.