As the summer heat ramps up, your home’s HVAC system becomes your first line of defense against sweltering temperatures. But just when you need it most, your air conditioning might start to struggle. A poorly performing HVAC system can lead to discomfort, rising energy bills, and even potential damage to your home. Let’s dive into three common reasons your home’s HVAC system might underperform during peak summer–and what you can do to fix it.
1. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is the substance your HVAC system uses to cool the air. If there’s a leak anywhere in the system, the cooling efficiency drops significantly. You might notice your home isn’t cooling down as quickly, or at all, even though the AC is running.
How to Address a Refrigerant Leak in Your Home:
- Call a licensed HVAC technician to inspect the system for leaks.
- If a leak is detected, the technician will repair it and recharge the refrigerant to the appropriate level.
- Schedule annual maintenance checks to catch small leaks before they become big problems.
2. Clogged Air Filters
Air filters are designed to capture dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne contaminants before they enter your home’s ductwork. Over time, filters can become clogged, reducing airflow and forcing your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, especially in extreme heat.
How to Address Clogged Air Filters in Your Home:
- Check your filters every 1-2 months during high-use seasons like summer.
- Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Consider upgrading to higher-efficiency filters if your home has pets, allergies, or higher-than-average dust levels.
3. Failing or Overworked Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your AC system–it circulates refrigerant and helps cool your home. When it starts to fail, your AC may blow warm air or take forever to cool your home. A stressed-out compressor often fails during the hottest months due to the extra workload.
How to Address a Compressor Issue in Your Home:
- If you notice unusual noises, reduced cooling, or warm air blowing from vents, call an HVAC pro to inspect the compressor.
- Depending on the problem, it may need to be repaired or completely replaced.
- To extend your compressor’s life, keep up with regular tune-ups and make sure the rest of your HVAC system is running efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Your home’s comfort depends heavily on a well-functioning HVAC system– especially during the peak summer heat. Don’t wait for a breakdown. Be proactive: replace filters regularly, schedule professional inspections, and fix any issues right away. With a little attention and regular maintenance, your HVAC system can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.