When it’s a warm summer day in Wausau, nothing is worse than realizing your AC isn’t operating the way it is meant to. The last thing you need to do is schedule cooling system repair. But your HVAC is a pretty complex system, so it can be difficult to find out what’s causing the issue on your own.

That’s why Gilray Heating and Cooling created this handbook to help you see what may be going on with your cooling system. From here, you’ll see a few prevailing explanations for why your space is feeling too warm. And though a couple of these are straightforward] DIY tasks, you might still need to turn to a pro for HVAC repair.

And if that’s the case, Gilray Heating and Cooling is ready to assist. Here are five reasons why your air conditioner may not be cooling your home in Wausau.

1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Off

Every home sets their thermostat a bit differently to work with their distinct requirements. However, a lot of homeowners make the mistake of setting their system to “On” instead of “Auto.” Under this setting, the fan in your air conditioner will continue to push out air even after you’ve attained your set temperature.

This can seem like your system is pushing out untreated air, when really it’s only employing the fan more frequently than required. Try switching this setting and find out if things cool off.

2. Your Home Comfort System Needs to Be Cleaned

There are two main spaces to look for dirt or dust accrual when your cooling system doesn’t appear to be working well.

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

If your filter is looking good, move to your external unit. Find out if there’s a reasonable amount of clearing around the unit and clean up plants or debris stuck there. This piece of your cooling system lets off the heat from inside your home. If the coils outside are congested, you won’t be feeling comfortable in your home.

We suggest setting professional air conditioner maintenance every year to keep your equipment operating smoothly and to keep your warranty valid.

3. Your AC is Releasing Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical that chills the air in your space. It moves between your inside and outside system pieces to grab and discharge heat, to help your house stay the right temperature. If there is a leak along the way, you won’t be feeling cool again until you set professional air conditioning repair.

Indications of a refrigerant leak include a lack of cooled air, pricier monthly bills, frozen evaporator coils and odd hissing noises originating from your air conditioner.

If you suspect refrigerant could be leaking, call Gilray Heating and Cooling for HVAC repair as soon as possible. Refrigerant can also be harmful to your family’s health.

4. One or More Pieces Should Be Replaced

Your air conditioner contains a couple crucial elements. These include the blower, evaporator coils, compressor, fan, condenser coils and expansion valve. If any one of these is failing, your home comfort suffers.

Our Gilray Heating and Cooling technicians are well-trained and knowledged in HVAC. They can help you find and fix any trouble.

5. Your Air Conditioner Has to Be Replaced

If your system is more than 10 years old, it could likely be about time to look into new air conditioner installation. As your system gets up there in years, it simply won’t run as well as it did in the beginning. And it could be making your house too warm.

If your air conditioner is on the younger side but still isn’t properly cooling your home, it could be too small for your house. AC units are not one-size-fits-all. An air conditioner that’s too small absolutely can’t help a home the way a properly sized HVAC can.

Create a More Comfortable House with Gilray Heating and Cooling

You won’t have to waste any time this summer in an uncomfortable home. When your air conditioner isn’t functioning correct, turn to Gilray Heating and Cooling. We’re experts in HVAC repair. Contact us at 715-301-0727 right away.