A man kneeling down next to an air conditioner.

Does Your AC System Need a Charge?


Has your air conditioning system stopped pumping cool air? Have you ever wondered how the air gets cold in the first place? Central air conditioners use a gas coolant that is supposed to last the lifespan of the equipment, but damage and wear and tear can cause it to run out. How do you know if your system needs a charge? Find out below:

Check The Thermostat

This should be the first place you check if you’re unsure about the temperature of the air. Start by setting the thermostat to around 85 degrees and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then come back and set it down to 60 degrees. If the system kicks on and the house begins to cool down, you simply needed a reset. You should also check the thermostat itself to make sure none of the components are sticking.

Check The Vents

After you reset the thermostat, if your system is still blowing room-temperature air it could be a sign that it needs a charge. Give the system some time to run and then place your hand in front of the vent. If it’s still warm, call in an air conditioning professional for a coolant charge.