My system is running properly, but it doesn’t seem to be cooling my house.
The most likely problem is that your system is in need of a tune-up. You should have a professional come out to check out the entire system seasonally to avoid dirt build up. Even a small amount of dirt can cause your system to have to work harder to cool your home. In addition, you should check your outside condenser for blockages such as leaves and debris, or have a professional inspect your ductwork for any airflow problems.
Some rooms in my home are much cooler than other.
This is likely due to your ductwork combined with the natural tendency for cooler air to fall and hot air to rise. The first step is to close the vents in lower rooms of the house, forcing the cold air to exit at the top of your home and drop to the bottom. This should create an even spread of cooling throughout the home. If that is not effective, the next step is to call a professional and have your ventilation inspected for blockages.
My system is non-operational.
The temperature settings may not be correct on your thermostat. Check to see that it is set for a temperature below the current indoor temperature of your home. Then check to see whether power is being sent to your system. Inspect circuit breakers to ensure that it is receiving the required energy. After all steps have been performed and the system has not begun to function, have a technician come to inspect the system as soon as possible.
We are replacing our AC unit this season, what advice can you give me?
Replacing your system is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. The reason for this is that the life expectancy of a system is around 12 years. When choosing a contractor, pick a company to install the unit based on quality and customer service, not solely on price. The name brand of the equipment is not as important as the installing contractor. Keep in mind that when replacing a system make sure that the duct system you are connecting to is sealed tight with the proper amount of return air. With the new higher efficiency units, you also have to be careful that you replace your system with the proper sized unit so you don’t end up with a house that is cool but has high humidity. Do some researching, pick quality contractors, and find someone you trust and you will have a successful installation that will bring you years of comfort and the least amount of overall cost.
What is meant by a 'ton' of refrigeration?
One ton of refrigeration is the term used to refer to 12,000 B.T.U.s/hour (British Thermal Units/Hour) of cooling effect. Thus, a condensing unit with a cooling capacity of 60,000 B.T.U.s/hour is said to have a capacity of 5 tons. The unit has little to do with weight, as used in everyday language.
Why can't you add coolant to my system without checking for a leak or repairing an existing leak?
Since July 1, 1992 it is against EPA standards to release refrigerants into the atmosphere, either intentional or accidental, because they can cause severe damage to the ozone layer. When refrigerants such as Chlorofluorocarbon’s (CFCs) are removed, they should be recycled to clean out any contaminants and returned to a usable condition.