Have you ever wondered if your AC is operating at maximum capacity? It’s a common concern for many homeowners, especially in the triple-digit days of an Arizona summer.
Some days, it just feels like no matter how hard your system is working, it’s just not providing the cooling power you need. It could be a sign that your AC is not performing at full capacity and may need service or repair. Here are a few things to consider when ensuring maximum cooling comfort:
Age of Your AC Unit
Like most things, an AC unit will start to slow down over time. While regular service and maintenance can delay this decline, even the best-maintained systems will not run at maximum capacity forever. Systems over ten years old will start to show a decrease in cooling output as compared to when they were brand new.
Freedom of Airflow
Even if your air conditioning system is working properly, you won’t feel the effects if the cool air can’t reach you. Lack of airflow causes your system to run more often and work harder, putting more strain on the system and reducing its lifespan. Make sure to inspect the registers and vents in your home, ensuring that they are open and not obstructed. Regular air filter changes will also improve the flow of air and ease the burden on your unit.
Insulation
Don’t let your cooling capacity go out the window, under the door, or through a leak somewhere in the system. Air leaks can leave you with a high energy bill and low efficiency. Maximize home insulation to keep the cold air in and heat out by checking windows, around baseboards, and weather stripping around doors. A home energy audit can help find places where cool air is escaping or leaks in ductwork that may need repair.
Refrigerant Leaks
A leak in your AC system’s refrigerant will cause a noticeable difference in operating efficiency and the temperature in your home. It can cause your evaporator coil to freeze or have other damaging effects on your system. Refrigerant leaks not only prevent your unit from reaching full running capacity but are particularly dangerous as the chemicals used can cause serious health effects to people and pets in the home.
To keep your air conditioning system running at maximum capacity and providing peak performance, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.
This is a rewrite from the original blog post: Is there a way to know if my Cooling System at home can still work to its original capacity?