AC Not Blowing Cold Air? Here’s What You Need to Do
One of summer’s greatest pleasures is stepping into a chilled room after hours of fun in the sun. But what happens when you discover your AC isn’t blowing cold air?
It’s easy to panic and think your unit has completely broken down. Fortunately, there are several simple explanations for why you’re not getting cold air and even a few DIY fixes you can try.
Take a look at our top seven reasons why you’re not getting cold air. We’ll explore DIY fixes, then the warning signs of when it’s best to contact a technician.
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7 Reasons Why Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
We can help you narrow down the causes with these seven common air conditioning cooling issues. You’ll find out why your AC isn’t working right, then get a next course of action.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
Start with the simplest possible problem. Your thermostat might not be set to the proper cooling mode, meaning the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature.
What to Do Next
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as incorrect thermostat settings. Change the thermostat settings to a colder temperature, then pay close attention to your air conditioner’s cooling. You should be feeling a cool blast of air within several seconds.
2. Ensure Your Air Filter is Clean
A clogged or dirty air filter can significantly reduce your unit’s performance. A compromised filter restricts airflow, making it difficult for your system to properly cool the air.
What to Do Next
Write a note in your calendar or phone to replace your air filter every two to three months. You may need to change them more frequently depending on your climate and the type of filter you have.
For example, if you live in an area with a lot of pollen or smog, you may need to change the filter once per month.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are usually located in the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system. Dirt, debris, and grime can build up on these coils over time, reducing heat transfer and hindering the unit’s ability to cool the air.
What to Do Next
It’s easy to clean grime off your condenser coils with a gentle spray from your garden hose or a large spray bottle. However, if you can’t easily access your coils or don’t feel comfortable cleaning them yourself, reach out to a professional.
4. Check for Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common reasons your AC isn’t blowing cold air is because it’s out of juice. The refrigerant in your system is responsible for absorbing and releasing heat so you can cool down.
While refrigerant levels in the system should stay consistent for years, you may have a refrigerant leak dripping out all your hard-earned money. Not only are leaks potentially dangerous, they also rob your air conditioning system of what it needs to create cold air.
What to Do Next
Homeowners can’t fix this problem. Since refrigerant is a hazardous chemical, attempting to refill it yourself could expose you to harmful fumes or damage your system.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak or low refrigerant levels, contact a licensed HVAC technician. They can repair the leak, then recharge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant just in time for summer.
5. Examine the Evaporator Coils
The job of your air conditioning system’s evaporator coils is to absorb heat from the indoor air. Over time, poor airflow and ongoing inactivity can make these coils dirty or frosted, reducing their ability to absorb heat.
What to Do Next
If you notice any ice or frost on your coils, turn off the air conditioner long enough for the coils to thaw. You can later try turning on your air conditioner once it’s melted off.
To be on the safe side, we recommend contacting a professional to come check out your unit. Your AC not blowing cold air is just one of many problems that can come from frozen coils, so a professional can make sure you’re not dealing with leaks or clogs, too.
6. Ensure Proper Airflow
Blocked or restricted airflow can affect your AC’s performance. Poor airflow can cause your condenser coils to freeze, or, at the other extreme, cause overheating. Both are serious problems that can completely break down your unit and leave you with no heat in the middle of summer.
What to Do Next
First, make sure there are no obstructions around your indoor and outdoor units, like furniture, curtains, or debris. Many outdoor air conditioners get a lot of dirt, leaves, and twigs falling on them during spring or fall.
Additionally, make sure all vents and registers are open and unblocked to allow proper air circulation.
7. Test the Capacitor and Compressor
Faulty capacitors or compressors can also be a reason why your AC isn’t blowing cold air. Without these vital components, your air conditioning unit can’t circulate air and cool it down.
What to Do Next
If there’s no cool air blowing due to a failed capacitor or compressor, that’s a job for a technician. They’ll either have to repair the problem or swap in entirely new parts.
DIY or Pro: Which Should You Choose?
It’s understandable to want to save a little money and fix the problem yourself. In fact, there are several ways to clean or tune up your air conditioner a few times per year.
You should go the DIY route if you have a minor issue, such as:
Dirty filters
Dusty vents and ductwork
Incorrect thermostat settings
However, sometimes the reasons why your AC unit isn’t blowing cold air are serious and need a technician. If you try to fix these issues on your own, you could put your AC’s warranty and even your safety at risk:
Failed compressor, capacitor, or blower
Faulty electrical wiring
Low refrigerant levels
Clogged condenser coils
Unexplained leaking
Not sure if you should call a professional for your air conditioning problem? Give us a call for a quick consultation!
What Should You Expect With an AC Tune-Up?
Why is your AC unit not blowing cool air, and can a tune-up fix the issue? A tune-up sits at the crossroads of a general inspection and a maintenance visit. It’s a great way to make sure your air conditioning unit is working as intended and can even extend its lifespan by preventing further damage.
Your AC tune-up will involve:
An inspection for any potentially serious problems like leaks, cracks, or failures
Cleaning grime from your filters, condenser coils, and vents
Clearing out ductwork to promote better airflow
Calibrating thermostats to make sure they’re providing accurate readings
Running the system to check for any weak airflow or strange sounds
Every homeowner brings unique needs to the table, so your tune-up may still involve a few extra calibrations or inspections. Depending on the extent of the problem, your technician may recommend an air conditioning repair job or a new installation instead.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
If you don’t want to deal with your AC not blowing cold air in the future, regular maintenance will drastically reduce the risk of that happening. Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician to keep your system running smoothly.
Expert technicians can identify and address small issues before they become major problems. The best way to stay ahead of potential problems with your air conditioning is through a preventive maintenance plan.
If you’re unsure about performing the checks listed above on your own, or if you run through them and are still having problems, consult a qualified HVAC technician who can diagnose and perform AC repair services properly.
Hauser Air Will Get Your AC Ready for Summer
Don’t try to tough out another summer with hand fans and forehead towels. You deserve to enjoy the benefits of a dependable air conditioner that works right when you need it.
We’ve been helping homeowners beat the heat since 1978. When you work with Hauser Air, you’ll get great deals with our:
Pro Service Plan for even more discounts on regular service
Financing options to split up your appointment into multiple payments
You can find us tuning up air conditioners and installing new models throughout the Greater Cincinnati and South Dayton areas. You can also see what our past customers have to say about working with us! Call us to schedule a service now!