Why Is My AC Not Cooling? Common Causes and What to Do
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Air Conditioning5 min read

Why Is My AC Not Cooling? Common Causes and What to Do

When your air conditioner stops keeping up on a hot Okanagan summer day, you need answers fast. Here are the most common culprits.

There's nothing worse than your AC failing on the hottest day of the year. Before you panic, there are a few things you can check yourself — and some that definitely need a professional.

Dirty air filter. A clogged filter is the number one cause of poor AC performance. It restricts airflow over the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze up and stop cooling. Check and replace your filter first.

Thermostat issues. Make sure your thermostat is set to 'cool' and the temperature is set below the current room temperature. Also check that it's not in 'fan only' mode, which circulates air without cooling it.

Frozen evaporator coil. If you see ice on your indoor unit, turn the system off and let it thaw for a few hours. This is often caused by restricted airflow or low refrigerant.

Low refrigerant. If your system is low on refrigerant, it won't cool effectively. This is almost always due to a leak, which needs to be found and repaired by a licensed technician before recharging.

Dirty condenser coils. The outdoor unit needs to be able to release heat. If the condenser coils are caked with dirt, leaves, or debris, the system can't do its job. Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear.

Failing compressor. The compressor is the heart of your AC system. If it's failing, the system won't cool at all. This is a job for a professional.

If you've checked the basics and your AC still isn't cooling, call Clearview Mechanical Services at 778 214 6148. We offer fast, reliable AC repair throughout Kelowna and the BC Lower Mainland.

Need help? We're just a call away.

Clearview Mechanical Services — Kelowna & BC Lower Mainland

778 214 6148