What should be inspected if a compressor is running but the system fails to cool adequately?

When a compressor is running but the system fails to cool adequately, inspecting the refrigerant charge levels is critical. The refrigerant plays a vital role in the heat exchange process within an air conditioning system. If the refrigerant levels are too low due to leaks or improper charging, the system won't be able to absorb sufficient heat from the indoor air, leading to inadequate cooling performance.

Proper refrigerant levels enable the evaporator coil to operate efficiently, which in turn helps in maximizing the cooling effect. If the charge is too high or too low, it can lead to further complications like compressor damage or reduced efficiency.

While other components like the expansion valve, air filters, and noises from the compressor can also affect the cooling, starting with a check on the refrigerant charge provides a foundational understanding of systemic performance issues. If the refrigerant levels are optimal, then it would be prudent to inspect other elements in the system to diagnose the cooling problem accurately.