A central air conditioning system is designed to send air around the living spaces in a house to create an even spread of cooling. It won’t be perfect, as some rooms are harder to cool than others because of conditions like sun-exposure. But you’ll have a good idea of what your house feels like when the AC is on and working the way it should.
When the cooling turns uneven and you start noticing true “hot spots” in the house, it may mean you need air conditioning repair in Lawrenceville, GA. You will at least want an HVAC pro to take a look at the system to see why your cooling isn’t at the peak of its summer game. Below we’ve listed five common causes for hot spots in homes:
#1 – The Clogged Filter
A clogged HVAC filter is a frequent source of air conditioning troubles. When the filter becomes clogged after one to three months of operation, it begins to block airflow into the air conditioner and therefore into the ductwork. Strong airflow will only reach some of the rooms, leaving others to bake like the surface of Venus. Change the filter if it’s clogged, then set up a regular timetable to put in a new filter on a 1-3 month basis.
#2 – The Broken Air Handler
The air handler is the part of the HVAC system that draws air from the return ducts and then sends it through the AC to cool it and push it into the ductwork. Trouble with the motor of the blower fan in the air handler will lower airflow into the ventilation system, and that will create an uneven distribution of cooled air.
#3 – The Faulty Thermostat
Something as basic as a thermostat miscalibration can create AC trouble. The thermostat turns the AC compressor and the fans on and off, and when it senses incorrect temperatures, it will shut off before it can cool down the entire house. If you notice the AC is running in shorter cycles than normal, the thermostat may be the source. (There are other causes for short-cycling, so please have technicians take a look at the system.)
#4 – Leaky Ductwork
The air conditioner may have no issues. It’s the ductwork connected to it that’s the problem. Air leaks in the ducts can rob the ventilation system of up to 30% of the cooled air moving through it. This is a waste of money, but it also means less cool air getting to the rooms and a drop in air pressure throughout. It takes professionals to locate duct leaks and seal them.
#5 – The Air Conditioner Is Too Old
If you have an air conditioner that’s over 10 years old, and especially if it’s over 15 years old, the uneven cooling is a red flag of a system that’s ready to go to the recycling yard. Ask technicians about what repairs may work and if the repairs are cost-effective compared to replacing the system. For a 15 years old AC, it’s usually a better long-term plan to have a new air conditioner installed.
At Snellville Heating, Air and Plumbing, your comfort is OUR business! Call us to have your home’s cooling back to the best.
