Why Your Air Conditioner’s Airflow Is So Weak in Charleston, West Virginia

Summers in Charleston can get unbearably hot, so you need your air conditioning system in perfect working order to keep your home cool and comfortable. If you notice the airflow from your AC unit isn’t sufficient, there’s likely a problem that requires professional attention. 

At Best Virginia Heating and Cooling, we draw on our extensive experience in providing expert AC services in Charleston, WV, to explain common causes of weak airflow and offer tips to tackle them. Keep reading for more information.

You Have a Dirty Air Filter That Impedes Airflow

The more air your air conditioning system takes in via the return vents, the more it can pump out of your home. When your AC unit’s filter is clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, it won’t be able to pull in a lot of air from your house. 

You may understand this concept better if you try to breathe while covering your nose and mouth with a blanket. You should schedule regular AC maintenance for a professional to check and replace your air filter when necessary to prevent clogging. 

You Have Blocked Vents or Ducts

When accumulated debris and pests clog and block your AC vents or ducts, not much cool air will reach your home. Experienced technicians can clean or seal your ducts to enhance your air conditioning system’s airflow. 

You might also experience a weak AC airflow in Charleston, WV, if your air conditioner ducts are too large or too small. A certified HVAC company like Best Virginia Heating and Cooling can evaluate your system and advise whether your ducts need resizing. 

A Frozen Evaporator Can Cause Weak AC Airflow in Charleston, WV

An air conditioning system passes air over cold evaporator coils to cool your home. If these coils become frozen, the air won’t pass over and enter your duct system. In the end, you’ll notice diminished airflow. 

Your AC unit’s evaporator coils may freeze over for the following reasons:

• Dirt buildup on the coils
• A refrigerant leak
• A clogged return vent or a dirty air filter

You should know that evaporator coils usually start freezing inside the air handler, which you can find in your attic, basement, or closet. Suppose you notice ice building up on your refrigerant lines. In that case, switch your thermostat fan from “AUTO” to “ON” mode so the lines can thaw. 

Don’t forget to place a container beneath your frozen evaporator coils to prevent water damage from melted ice. 

If you still have weak airflow and frozen coils, contact a professional to assess your air conditioner for refrigerant leaks. You should see an improvement when they find and fix any leaks and recharge your unit. 

You Have a Worn or Faulty Blower Motor 

Another common cause of weak airflow is a problem with the blower motor. This component helps push air through your air conditioning system, all the way into your house. 

When your AC blower motor has problems, the amount of air flowing through the system will significantly reduce. A qualified professional can inspect the motor and wipe off any caked-in dirt. If airflow doesn’t improve, your technician will check for other issues and determine whether the blower needs replacement. 

You might want to do this task yourself, but the fan blades can easily chop your fingers off if you’re unsure what you’re doing. You’re better off hiring a professional service to avoid injuries or damaging your system. 

Low Refrigerant Levels Can Cause Poor Air Circulation

Refrigerant helps cool the air within your air conditioner before it reaches your indoor space. If you have insufficient refrigerant, your AC unit will put more effort into generating cold air, which leads to poor airflow. Your trusted technician can top off your refrigerant while checking for possible leaks.