If your air conditioner runs all day without adequately cooling your Louisiana home, there might be something wrong behind the scenes. In some cases, the solution can be as simple as replacing a filter or changing the thermostat. If the problem still persists, then your AC might need professional servicing, and that’s where we come in.
At Brooks Heating and Air Conditioning, we are well acquainted with the common AC issues homeowners face in Bossier City, LA. Because of our year-round humidity, air conditioners can be especially prone to unexpected failure. Considering this, it takes a reliable professional with localized knowledge to provide effective HVAC services. With over 70 years in the business, our company is proud to offer tailored solutions to all our neighbors.
Why Homeowners Should Not Ignore an AC That Runs But Won’t Cool
Here in Northwest Louisiana, air conditioners work hard to cool homes during our hot, humid summers and rainy springs. Excessive year-round humidity can put extra strain on your unit, which amplifies when it runs continuously. Because ACs are also supposed to lower moisture levels, your home may feel both warm and sticky when your system experiences issues. Therefore, a malfunctioning air conditioner doesn’t just interfere with your comfort. It can affect your health as well.
Nobody wants to spend more money than necessary on household fixes, but your AC is an important investment. When its performance declines, the necessary tasks can range from simple replacements to major repairs. Ignoring potential issues can lead to several consequences, including increased wear and tear or even serious, large-scale damage. That is why a professional inspection is the first step in cases where AC issues become noticeable.
- Higher energy bills
- Increased wear and tear
- Reduced indoor air quality
- Complete unit failure
- Expensive repair jobs
- Poor humidity control
6 Common Causes of a Running AC Not Blowing Cool Air
There are many reasons why your hard-working AC may not be cooling your home as well as it should be. However, there are certain signs you can look for as your AC’s performance changes. Here are six common causes behind why your air conditioner is slow to cool down your home.
1. Thermostat Issues
Before assuming your actual AC unit is failing, try inspecting the thermostat. This device is responsible for sending signals to your AC, including commands for setting your household temperature. Check to see if anyone has changed your usual settings or if the batteries need replacing. It’s also worth making sure your thermostat is in good working order overall.
If your thermostat is outdated, it can be a good time to consider installing a smart thermostat. With such a device, you can automate household temperatures based on the time of day or your family’s routine. Along with optimizing your heating and cooling schedule, it can also result in significant energy savings.
2. Dirty Filter
As dust and debris accumulate on your AC filters, airflow becomes more restricted. With less air moving through the system, your AC must work harder to make up the difference. This can result in longer cooling cycles, uneven cooling between rooms, and weakened airflow. As a rule of thumb, check your AC filters once a month and replace them as needed.
3. Blocked Airflow
Besides clogged filters, bulky furniture or curtains around vents, closed registers, or damaged ducts can also block airflow. With severely restricted airflow, cooled air fails to circulate properly, leading to inconsistent temperatures throughout the home. If your AC isn’t cooling, inspect the layout of your home to ensure there’s room for air to circulate freely.
4. Low Refrigerant
Unlike fuels like gasoline, refrigerant doesn’t run low with consumption. That means that if the level in your unit is low, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system. Common signs include weak or war blowing air and icy coils or refrigerant lines. Handling this substance requires a special license, so diagnosing and replacing should always be conducted by a professional.
5. Faulty Capacitor or Compressor
The capacitor and compressor are two important mechanical components of an AC. If one or both are faulty, you may notice that your AC is slow to start or is making unusual noises. Ignoring this issue may lead to more severe electrical or mechanical problems down the line. Because these components are critical to the overall cooling process, you should always seek professional assistance for repairs.
6. Frozen Coils
When ice forms on your evaporator coils, they can no longer cool air properly. Along with low refrigerant, this can also be caused by restricted airflow or dirty coils. Continuing to run an AC with frozen coils can damage the compressor, so try keeping it off until the ice melts. If your AC troubles persist after the coils have thawed, then it’s time to call us for help.
When To Call for AC Repairs
Many homeowners put off calling for service until their system stops working altogether. Unfortunately, waiting until that point usually means the issue is severe and your repair bill will be higher. In Bossier City, a malfunctioning AC can also trigger moisture-related problems like mold, musty odors, and poor air quality. By addressing cooling issues, you can prevent more extensive damage and reduce the likelihood of a complete system breakdown during the peak of summer.
It’s possible to solve some cooling issues with basic troubleshooting. However, nothing beats a trained expert who can identify and fix the root issue, along with performing some maintenance. Consider scheduling professional service if you continue to have cooling issues after troubleshooting. You should also request emergency services if you experience a potentially hazardous AC issue.
- Sparking electrical components
- Natural gas leaks
- Severe leaks or flooding
- Circuit breaker tripping repeatedly
- Extremely loud noises
- Complete unit failure during summer
Call Brooks for AC Repair in Bossier City, LA
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home, the issue could stem from a thermostat setting or dirty air filter. However, it may indicate a more serious mechanical problem. Identifying the cause early can help prevent higher energy bills, reduce strain on your system, and restore comfort more quickly. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve the problem, a professional inspection will ensure your AC receives the care it needs. Fortunately, you have an employee-owned, award-winning partner for HVAC services in Bossier City.
For effective AC repairs with upfront pricing and a customer-led focus, contact Brooks Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule an appointment.
