When it’s a warm summer afternoon in Manassas, nothing is worse than registering your air conditioner isn’t working the way it should. The last thing you want to do is call for cooling system service. But your HVAC is a pretty intricate system, so it can be almost impossible to find out what’s triggering the issue solo.

That’s why Woody's Sudden Service wrote this informational guide to help you find out what may be happening with your AC. Below, you’ll discover a few prevailing reasons your house is feeling uncomfortable. And though a few of these are simple] DIY activities, you may need to bring in a pro for HVAC repair.

And if that’s the case, Woody's Sudden Service is here for you. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Manassas.

1. Your Device Settings Are Incorrect

Every person uses their thermostat a touch differently to match their personal requirements. However, many families make the misstep of setting their thermostat to “On” as opposed to “Auto.” Because of this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to blow even after you’ve reached your preferred temperature.

This can look like your ducts are distributing untreated air, when actually it’s only employing the fan on a more regular basis than necessary. Change this setting and see if things change.

2. Your Cooling System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two central areas to investigate for dirt or dust accumulation when your home comfort system doesn’t feel like it is performing well.

Before anything else, take a look at your AC system’s filter. If you don’t change your filter on a regular basis, buildup can make it hard for air to flow through and cool down your home. If your filter is visibly dirty or dusty, it’s definitely time to replace it. (And for best operation, you have to replace it about once every three months at a minimum.)

If your filter is looking clean, go to your external unit. Double check there’s enough room around it and clear away plants or debris stuck there. This piece of your AC discharges the heat from inside your house. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable in your home.

We recommend setting professional air conditioner maintenance yearly to keep your equipment operating smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your Unit is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the material that cools the air in your house. It runs between your inside and outdoor system pieces to soak up and let off heat, to help your house stay comfortable. If there is an opening along that system, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Signals of a refrigerant leak include a decrease in cooled air, higher electric charges, frozen evaporator coils and strange hissing noises originating from your system.

If you suspect refrigerant may be leaking, call Woody's Sudden Service for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be damaging to your family’s health.

4. One or More Elements Should Be Replaced

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

Our Woody's Sudden Service pros are trained and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you locate and mend any trouble.

5. Your System Should Be Updated

If your equipment is over 10 years old, it is probably a good time to think about new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it just won’t function as well as it did in the beginning. And it might be making your house less comfortable.

If your AC is more current but still isn’t cooling things off, it might be too small for your living space. HVAC systems are not all the same size. A cooling system that’s too small absolutely can’t cool a space the way an appropriately sized HVAC can.

Find a More Comfortable Space with Woody's Sudden Service

You shouldn’t waste a moment this summer in a hot house. When your AC isn’t functioning correct, bank on Woody's Sudden Service. We’re experts in HVAC repair. Contact us at 703-278-2036 now.