search works locally, but is inconsistent on published site

[Nina Esile]

Here is my trouble: I have created a help system on my local computer. When I search for pretty much anything, search is fast and consistent. However, once the help is moved to a server, the search is inconsistent. When it doesn't work, I see the spinning graphic like it's working, but not ready yet. And it never stops spinning. In some ways, it is consistent: when a search term doesn't work, it always doesn't work.

I am not the one who moves the files to a production server, so I am not sure if everything is where it should be.

Suggestions?