Summer heat has put central air conditioners across Massachusetts through the wringer this year. If you’re one of many homeowners experiencing cooling issues, there could be several factors at play. Some problems can be resolved with simple DIY maintenance, while others require professional expertise. At TF Complete Heating & Cooling, we’re always ready to help restore your comfort when your central air conditioner isn’t performing as expected.
First, ensure your central air conditioner system has proper power. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective ones.
Walk through your home and verify that all switches related to your HVAC system are in the “on” position. Make sure its breakers haven’t tripped, which can completely shut down your cooling system, leaving you wondering why your central air conditioner isn’t working.
Thermostat issues rank among the most common reasons for cooling problems. Check that your thermostat is set to “cool” mode rather than “heat” or “fan only.” The temperature setting should be at least five degrees below your current room temperature to trigger the cooling cycle.
If someone in your household recently adjusted the settings, or if you have a programmable thermostat that may have reverted to default settings, making adjustments could help your system respond and get the cool air flowing.
A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow and forces your central air conditioner to work harder while delivering less cooling. This common issue can lead to inadequate cooling, higher energy bills and potential system damage if left unaddressed.
Turn off your system and locate the air filter (typically near your indoor unit). Remove the filter and hold it up to a light source. If you can’t see through it clearly or if it’s visibly dirty with dust and debris, it needs replacement. Most filters should be changed every 1-3 months, depending on usage and household factors like pets or allergies.
Your outdoor condenser unit requires adequate airflow to function properly. The unit’s coil, wrapped around the outside with thin metal fins, can become clogged with dirt, grass clippings, leaves and other debris.
Examine the area around your condenser unit and remove any obstacles within a two-foot radius. Turn off the power to the unit before cleaning. Gently vacuum the coil with a brush attachment or rinse it carefully with a garden hose, working from the inside out to avoid pushing debris deeper into the fins. Avoid using high pressure, which can damage the delicate fins.
A frozen evaporator coil prevents your central air conditioner from cooling your home effectively. This component, located in your indoor unit, removes heat and humidity from the air circulating through your home.
Signs of a frozen coil include frost on refrigerant lines, inadequate cooling, higher utility bills and water leakage near your indoor unit. In severe cases, you might notice frost on exterior refrigerant tubing or the outdoor unit itself. If you suspect a frozen coil, turn off your system immediately and contact a professional, as accessing and resolving evaporator coil issues requires specialized knowledge and tools.
Refrigerant is the chemical that makes cooling possible in your central air conditioner. It flows between indoor and outdoor coils, changing from liquid to gas and back again, absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside.
Low refrigerant levels typically result from leaks. Symptoms include reduced cooling capacity, longer running times without reaching desired temperatures and complete system failures. Refrigerant issues require professional attention, as handling refrigerant requires special certification and equipment. Never attempt to add refrigerant yourself.
Homeowners can handle basic tasks like changing filters, but complex issues need professional expertise. TF Complete Heating & Cooling provides central air conditioner repair services to Wrentham and nearby areas in Bristol, Middlesex and Norfolk Counties.
Our skilled technicians fix refrigerant leaks, frozen coils, electrical issues and other problems affecting cooling performance. We also offer annual maintenance to prevent common issues before they start.
Don’t let a broken A/C put a damper on your summer fun. Contact TF Complete Heating & Cooling to schedule repairs, set up maintenance or get a free estimate for a new, energy-efficient system.
Contact us today to schedule a routine maintenance visit. If you need an emergency repair, please call our office right away at 508-507-6702, and we will get to your home as soon as we can.