Why is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling Properly?

Author Rod Marchant-Smith | Peninsula Air Conditioning

Seaforth resident, Linda asks

“Over the last few weeks we’ve noticed that our air conditioning unit doesn’t seem to be as cold as it usually is? What’s wrong with it? Does it need a service? Or does it need to be re-gassed? Our neighbour seems to think it’s a problem with the outdoor unit as it seems quite noisy. Please help.”

Ever turned on your air conditioner expecting relief from the heat, only to find it’s just not cutting it? It’s a common frustration many of us have faced. In this guide, we dive into why your AC might be falling short of delivering that crisp, cool air, focusing on common culprits and how PenAir can help turn things around.

Troubleshooting Steps

There are a few things you can check yourself if your aircon does not cool properly before calling in the experts. A quick self-inspection might reveal an easy fix:

  • Unblock Air Outlets: Make sure both indoor and outdoor units are clear of any obstacles that might impede airflow.
  • Clean the Filters: A clogged air filter can severely restrict airflow, diminishing cooling efficiency. A clean filter can make a world of difference.
  • Fan Speed: If your fan speed is set too low, it might not be pushing enough air through your space.
  • Seal the Room: Keep doors and windows shut to stop warm air from sneaking in. Curtains or blinds can also help keep out direct sunlight, and remember, more people means more heat.

Why Is My Aircon Not Cold? Common Reasons Your Aircon Isn’t Cooling

Even after a quick check, you might find the problem persists. Here’s what could be happening:

Low Refrigerant Gas

A drop in cooling efficiency often points to low levels of refrigerant gas, usually due to leaks. These leaks might be small and hard to detect but can significantly impact performance.

Damaged Ducts

Ductwork in your roof space can get damaged or disconnected, especially if you’ve had work done up there. This could lead to cool air not reaching its intended destination.

Blocked Filters

Neglected filters that aren’t cleaned regularly can obstruct airflow, making your system work harder and increasing energy consumption.

Incorrectly Sized System

Sometimes the issue might be that your air conditioning unit just isn’t the right fit for your space. An undersized system will struggle to cool effectively.

The PenAir Solution

At PenAir, we understand how crucial a functioning air conditioner is for your comfort. Here’s how we address these issues:

  • Expert Diagnosis: Our technicians conduct thorough inspections to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem, whether it’s a refrigerant leak, duct damage, or something else.
  • Comprehensive Repairs: From sealing leaks and re-gassing with the appropriate refrigerant to repairing ductwork and cleaning filters, we cover all bases to ensure your system runs smoothly.
  • Smart Recommendations: If your system is outdated or too small, we can advise on the best course of action, including upgrading to more eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions like switching from R22 to R32 refrigerant gas.

Get In Touch Today

Struggling with an air conditioner that’s just not doing the job? Don’t sweat it. Our skilled technicians are here to get to the bottom of the issue, perform necessary repairs and maintenance, and ensure your space is cooled efficiently. 

With PenAir, you’re just a call away from regaining the comfort levels you desire in your home or business. Contact us for a quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is my air conditioner running but not cooling enough?

If an air conditioner is not blowing cold air but is running, it’s essential to check for obstructions and clean your filters first. Dirty filters or even improperly sized equipment for your space cause issues to seemingly working units. However, if the problem persists after these checks, the system may need a professional inspection to identify issues like refrigerant leaks or electrical faults.

Why does my AC not feel as cold as usual?

When your AC doesn’t feel as cold, it might be struggling with airflow issues or refrigerant levels. Blocked filters, dirty coils, or even a malfunctioning thermostat can also contribute to this problem. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent these issues and keep your AC running at its best.

What to do if AC is not cooling properly?

Start with the basics: ensure your filters are clean, check for any obvious obstructions to airflow, and verify that all settings are correct. If your AC still isn’t cooling efficiently, it could indicate a need for professional servicing to address potential refrigerant leaks, electrical issues, or ductwork problems.

Why is my AC not cooling to the set temperature?

If your AC isn’t reaching the desired temperature, it could be due to incorrect thermostat settings, a malfunctioning thermostat, insufficient refrigerant, or leaks in your ductwork. It’s also possible your AC unit isn’t adequately sized for your cooling area. A professional HVAC technician can diagnose and resolve these issues, ensuring your system cools effectively.

Free, No Obligation Consultation.

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Schedule a time with us to organise a quote for your home or business.

One of our technicians will perform an inspection and provide you with an obligation free quote.