Is My AC Just Slow or Is It Broken?

Have you had it serviced recently? Sometimes it really just needs a tune-up, and that could resolve the issues. Also, knowing what kind of system you have—like whether it's a furnace, heat pump, etc.—would help narrow it down.

Sometimes, the condensation drain line gets clogged. If you find the small PVC outlet outside, you can shop-vac it out after covering the vent near your unit. That trick saved me tons in service fees! Just remember to change your filters regularly to avoid future clogs.

First things first, check your air filter! A dirty filter can really mess things up and decrease efficiency. I've noticed that simply cleaning or changing my filter can work wonders. If the filter is clean but it's still not working right, you might need to consider calling in some pros for a deeper clean of the indoor and outdoor units, especially if your AC is over 5 or 6 years old. A malfunctioning compressor or refrigerant issue could be lurking beneath the surface!

As a refrigeration mechanic, I’d say it's best to call a professional unless you're comfortable with a few checks. Make sure your thermostat is set correctly and that the furnace filter is clean. Beyond that, handling refrigerants and major components is usually best left to the experts.

Try checking the unit outside. When it's working properly, it should blow hot air out. If it’s not, and just feels cool when you stick your hand up to it, then it could be low on refrigerant. Also, keeping the air filter on the furnace's return air clean is key. If that’s good, it might be worth checking if the A-coil inside is clogged with dust.