7 Reasons Why Your AC Isn’t Cooling (And How to Fix It)
Spring has arrived in Broomfield, Westminster, and Denver, and that warm Colorado sunshine is a welcome relief after the chill of winter. But as temperatures start to climb, the last thing you want to deal with is an air conditioner that doesn’t work properly.
If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Why isn’t my AC cooling my house?”, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common problems homeowners face this time of year.
Your AC plays a vital role in keeping your home comfortable, but when it fails, it can quickly turn your pleasant spring day into an uncomfortable ordeal.
To help you troubleshoot, here are 7 common reasons your AC isn’t cooling and tips on what you can do to solve the problem before the heat of summer sets in.
1. Your Air Filter Is Dirty
A clogged air filter is one of the simplest yet most overlooked reasons for a malfunctioning AC. When your system’s filter is full of dust, dirt, and debris, airflow becomes restricted. This prevents your AC from cooling your home effectively and makes it work much harder than necessary.
The Fix: Check your air filter monthly, especially during seasons when your system runs more frequently. Replace it whenever it looks dirty, or at least every 1–3 months. This small maintenance task can drastically improve your AC's performance.
2. Your Thermostat Settings Are Incorrect
Believe it or not, the issue might not even be with your air conditioner itself, but with your thermostat. If your thermostat is set to "fan" mode instead of "cool," the system will circulate air without actively cooling it. Sometimes, springtime adjustments to heating schedules lead to accidental mistakes.
The Fix: Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and lower the temperature below the current indoor reading. If your thermostat is programmable or smart, confirm that its schedule and settings are correct.
3. Refrigerant Levels Are Low
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. It absorbs heat and keeps your home cool. But if the refrigerant levels are low, often due to leaks, your AC won't cool properly. Low refrigerant levels can also cause your system to ice up, which further reduces its efficiency.
The Fix: Refrigerant issues need to be handled by a professional HVAC technician. If you suspect this is the problem, call Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for a service appointment right away. A pro can identify and repair leaks and recharge your system with the proper refrigerant.
4. Your Coils Are Dirty
Your air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils play a key role in the cooling process. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt, dust, or even mold, which reduces their ability to transfer heat efficiently. The result? An AC that struggles to cool your home.
The Fix: Cleaning the coils is something a professional can handle during a routine maintenance visit. However, homeowners can help by ensuring the unit outside remains free of leaves and debris to improve airflow.
5. Leaky Ductwork Is Wasting Cold Air
If your home has ductwork, leaks are a common culprit when your AC doesn’t perform well. Cracks or gaps in your air ducts allow cool air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, making your system work much harder than it should.
The Fix: Inspect visible ductwork for damage and seal any leaks with duct tape made for HVAC systems. For larger or hidden leaks, hire an HVAC professional to conduct a thorough inspection and HVAC repair. Our technicians at Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling are experts in making sure your ductwork is up to par.
6. The Outdoor Unit Is Blocked
The outdoor component of your air conditioner, known as the condenser, needs plenty of airflow to work efficiently. If it’s obstructed by leaves, dirt, or even nearby plants, it can overheat and struggle to cool your home. Spring is the time when debris or landscaping may interfere with the unit.
The Fix: Clear away any debris or plants within two feet of your outdoor unit. Regularly hose it down to remove dirt and ensure there’s proper clearance for airflow.
7. Your AC Is Simply Old
If your air conditioner is more than 10–15 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Older units aren’t as efficient as modern systems and are more prone to breakdowns. If you’ve been dealing with repeated repairs and your AC still doesn’t cool effectively, it might be time to upgrade.
The Fix: Schedule a consultation with Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to discuss replacement options. While investing in a new system is a big decision, modern energy-efficient units can save you money in the long run with lower energy bills.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Call Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Today!
If you’re still wondering, “Why won’t my AC cool my house?” after addressing common issues, it’s time to call in the experts. At Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we proudly serve homeowners in Broomfield, Westminster, and Denver, providing top-notch AC repair, maintenance, and replacement services.
Colorado’s weather can heat up fast, and the last thing you want is a broken AC when the temperatures start to climb. Whether you need routine maintenance to keep your system in peak condition, prompt repairs to fix an issue, or emergency service when time is critical, Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has got your back.
Our team of skilled HVAC professionals is dedicated to keeping homeowners in Broomfield, Westminster, and Denver cool and comfortable all season long. We’re just a phone call away and ready to ensure your air conditioning is running smoothly before the summer heat sets in.
Don’t wait for small issues to turn into big headaches.
Contact Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your AC is in expert hands. Call now and stay ahead of Colorado’s rising temperatures!