There’s nothing more frustrating than turning on your air conditioning on a hot day only to realize that it’s not working properly. One of the most common issues you may experience is that your AC is cycling but not cooling. This can be caused by various factors, and diagnosing the issue might be challenging if you’re not experienced with HVAC systems. Here is a closer look at some of the reasons why this might be happening and what you can do to fix it.
The air filter is dirty or clogged:
If your AC is cycling but not providing cooling, the culprit could be a dirty or clogged air filter. This can restrict airflow, making it difficult for the system to cool your home effectively. If you haven’t checked or replaced your air filter lately, this is the first thing you should do. A dirty air filter is easy to repair, and it might be the only problem you’re experiencing. Be sure to clean or replace your air filter every few months to avoid this issue in the future.
The refrigerant is low:
Another common culprit when your AC is cycling but not cooling is low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is a chemical that the AC system uses to cool the air. If there isn’t enough refrigerant in the system, it won’t be able to cool effectively. This is a problem that should be addressed by a professional HVAC technician, as handling refrigerant is dangerous and requires specialized equipment.
The thermostat is malfunctioning:
If the AC is cycling frequently but not cooling properly, it could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat. The thermostat is what tells the system when to turn on and off. If the thermostat is faulty, the system may not be able to receive accurate temperature readings, causing it to turn on and off frequently. Replacing the thermostat might be a solution to this problem.
The outdoor unit is dirty or damaged:
Sometimes, the outdoor unit of your AC system can become dirty or damaged, restricting airflow and causing your AC to cycle regularly. If you notice that the fins on the outdoor unit are bent or damaged, or if it’s clogged with dirt and debris, you’ll need to clean it or get it repaired by a professional HVAC technician.
The AC system is worn out:
If you’ve exhausted all other possibilities, it’s possible that your AC system is worn out and needs to be replaced. An AC system that is several years old generally experiences performance issues and may not cool your home effectively. Replacing your AC system might be a significant expense, but in the long run, it’s a worthwhile investment if you want a more efficient and reliable system.
Contact a local HVAC company if you need a professional to repair your air conditioning system.
