Change your filter – Dirty filters are often the culprit of poor AC performance. It adds resistance and reduces airflow. Make sure outside condenser coil is clean – clear of cottonwood and other debris. Clean out condensate drain lines – make sure they are clear of debris.
If your air conditioner isn't keeping up with the heat, your air filter may be to blame. A dirty air filter can obstruct the airflow path through the unit. Using a dirty air filter can also cause less energy efficiency and more costly utility bills.
Your AC might not cool properly due to thermostat issues, an undersized unit, or extremely high outdoor temps—so check those first. Keep an eye on airflow—replace clogged filters every 3 months, and make sure vents and ducts aren't blocked for efficient cooling.
When temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit outside, setting your air conditioning (AC) to around 75-78 degrees Fahrenheit is generally considered efficient. Here are some reasons for this recommendation:
Cooling a house from 90 degrees to 72 degrees typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors.
Just because the outdoor temperature is above 100, the Ideal temperature to set your AC unit to doesn't change — it's 78 degrees. Higher temperatures in the home are to be expected when the weather is hotter than usual, but your thermostat can still be set the same as if it were a lower temperature outside.
One possible reason your AC is not reaching the set temperature is that the thermostat could be dirty. If dirt, dust, or other debris has accumulated within the thermostat box, it can cause the wires to heat up or other issues. Thermostats are cleaned during routine HVAC maintenance to help prevent this from happening.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
In general, 80 degrees is too hot for a house if people are inside. However, if people aren't home during the day or for vacation during the summer, an indoor temperature of 80 degrees can save energy until you return and lower the temperature.
Proper airflow is crucial for an AC system to cool your home efficiently. Several factors can compromise airflow, including blocked or obstructed vents, closed or incorrectly adjusted dampers, and dirty or obstructed evaporator coils. These issues restrict the air's flow, reducing the system's cooling capacity.
Your air conditioner isn't designed for extreme heat. Tips to keep cool Extreme temperatures present a significant challenge to AC systems, which engineers and installers say are really only designed to keep indoor temperatures about 20 degrees cooler than outside.
How Often Do I Need to Change Out My Air Filter? Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
Air conditioners don't defy time; they follow a cycle that's affected by more than just a glance at the thermostat. Typically, it takes about an hour for an average-sized air conditioning unit in typical conditions to lower room temperature by one degree Fahrenheit.
Setting your air conditioning to 72°F is generally considered a comfortable indoor temperature for many people. It strikes a good balance between comfort and energy efficiency, making it a popular choice for residential settings.
To unclog an AC drain line, turn off the power to the unit. Locate the drain line and use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the clog. Flush the line with water using a garden hose or cup of water. Check and clean the drain pan under the indoor unit.
Yes, you should turn off your AC if it's not cooling.
Your AC unit isn't producing cool air as well as it used to because dirty coils may be hindering its ability to remove heat in your home's air. It could also not work properly due to a clogged filter and refrigerant running low, which are also the most common causes why you feel warmer these days.
Some of the most common thermostat issues include:
The thermostat is broken, not properly level, or dusty. The thermostat needs to be recalibrated. There is loose wiring causing a thermostat issue.
Clean the Thermostat
Sometimes, when the room temperature doesn't match the thermostat setting, the problem could be dirt buildup on its interior parts. A dirt coating around the inner components may create excess heat and cause the thermostat to give the wrong readings.
Some of the basics include: turn your thermostat up a couple degrees and deal with 76 to 78 degree temperatures indoors for a few days. close off unused rooms. close doors and vents.
Best AC Temperature Settings While You Are Home
As you consider the most comfortable room temperature for your lifestyle and family, keep in mind that for each degree that you set your thermostat above 72 degrees, you can save up to 3% on your energy bill.
There are benefits to having your air conditioner set to “auto” and “on.” The benefits of the “auto” setting include higher efficiency, lower energy bills, better humidity control, less wear and tear on some components, and quieter running.