Air conditioning is an essential appliance for maintaining a comfortable environment, especially during the hottest months of the year. However, it is common for it to sometimes fail and not cool properly, which can cause discomfort at home or in the office.
Below, we will explain the possible reasons why the air conditioning does not cool correctly and what steps you can take to fix it.
Reasons why the air conditioner does not cool
lack of soda
The refrigerant is the vital gas of the air conditioning system, since it is responsible for absorbing the heat from the indoor air and expelling it outside to cool the environment. When there is a Refrigerant leak, the amount available in the system decreases, reducing its ability to cool effectively.
In these cases, it is essential that a specialized technician identifies and repairs the leak before reconnecting. recharge the refrigerant gas to the proper level. The system must be recharged according to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure proper operation.
A low coolant level can also indicate that the system has a persistent leak, which could cause long-term damage to the compressor if not addressed in time.
Dirty filters
Air filters in air conditioning systems are designed to capture dust, pollen, and other particles present in the air. Over time, these filters can become filled with dirt, hindering the normal flow of air through the system.
If filters are dirty or blocked, the air conditioner will have to work harder to cool the space, which can result in a loss of energy efficiency and reduced comfort. Significant buildup of dirt can even cause the system to malfunction. freezes internally, preventing cold air from circulating.
To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters every 1-2 months, depending on the use of the system and the air quality. In environments with a lot of dust or if there are pets in the home, it is advisable to perform this task more frequently.
Thermostat problems
The thermostat is one of the most important elements in an air conditioning system, as it regulates the temperature and controls when to turn the system on or off.
A faulty thermostat can incorrectly measure the temperature, causing the air conditioner to shut off early or not run often enough to keep the space cool. Additionally, if the thermostat is exposed to heat sources, such as direct sunlight, it can overheat, making it difficult to read the actual room temperature.
If this is the case, it is important relocate the thermostat in a suitable location or calibrate it correctly. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the thermostat with a more modern model, preferably a digital and programmable one.
Dirty condenser or evaporator
The condenser and evaporator are essential components in the cooling process. The condenser, located in the outdoor unit, dissipates the heat that the refrigerant has absorbed from the indoor air. The evaporator, located in the indoor unit, is where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air.
When these components become dirty, their efficiency is severely diminished, affecting heat transfer and, consequently, the system's ability to cool properly. It is essential Clean the condenser regularly with pressurized water or a soft brush. For the evaporator, although cleaning it is more complex, keeping the filters in good condition helps prevent the accumulation of dirt in this component.
Compressor problems
The compressor is one of the most important parts of the air conditioner, responsible for compressing the refrigerant and circulating it throughout the system. If the compressor fails, the hot air cannot be expelled effectively.
Problems like lack of voltage, loose connections or electrical overloads can affect the compressor's operation. If the compressor makes unusual noises or won't start, it's crucial to have it inspected by a technician to determine if it can be repaired or if it requires replacement.
Electrical problems that prevent the air conditioning from cooling
If your air conditioning does not cool and you have ruled out problems with the refrigerant gas, the origin of the problem could be a electrical faultA blown fuse or tripped switch can prevent the system from receiving the power it needs to operate properly.
To check for electrical problems, follow these steps:
- Make sure the air conditioner is properly connected to the power supply.
- Check the switches, circuit breakers and fuses related to the air conditioner.
- Inspect the wiring for possible damage.
- Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at different points in the system and detect electrical anomalies.
Handling electrical systems can be dangerous, so it is recommended to seek the help of a specialized technician if you do not have experience in this type of work.
Insufficient air conditioning capacity
Another aspect to consider is that the air conditioner must have the appropriate capacity for the size of the room or space to be cooled.
If the system is too small for the area it is located in, it will not be able to cool effectively on hot days, even if it is operating at its maximum. It is important to pre-calculate the required capacity in BTUs before purchasing air conditioning equipment, so that it is able to meet the demand of the space in question.
Remember that if you already have equipment installed that cannot cool properly, you can consider the option of complementing its use with fans or improving the thermal insulation in the room to optimize cooling.
With all these possible causes in mind, it is vital to perform a Preventive Maintenance regular maintenance of your air conditioning to avoid major problems and enjoy an efficient system at all times.