Is your air conditioning system running but not producing any cold air? Whether the air coming through your vents is room temperature or completely warm, know that there is an answer to the problem, and you may even be able to resolve it with a few simple steps.
Of course, it’s important to note that while checking the thermostat, vents, and air filters can uncover minor problems, many A/C issues require the experience and tools of a professional. So, you should never adjust or attempt to repair components on your HVAC equipment. Improper repairs or shortcuts could put your health and safety at risk as well as void your system’s warranty.
Now, let’s take a closer look at why your A/C isn’t blowing cold air and what you can do about it.
What You Can Do When Your A/C Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
Before panicking or jumping to conclusions, it’s important to take a few initial steps to rule out simple and common issues. You might just find the fix is something you can handle on your own.
Here’s how to troubleshoot an A/C system that isn’t blowing cold air:
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
It may seem obvious, but don’t overlook the thermostat. Is it set to “Cool” mode? Has someone accidentally adjusted the temperature? Sometimes, the problem is as simple as the thermostat being set to “On” instead of “Auto,” which keeps the fan blowing even when the air isn’t being cooled.
2. Inspect and Replace Dirty Air Filters
A filter covered in dust and pollutants restricts airflow, causing the system to struggle and potentially overheat. Replacing or cleaning your filter every 90 days can make a world of difference.
3. Check for a Tripped Circuit Breaker
Check your breaker box and reset any tripped breakers. If the breaker continues to trip, there’s a more serious issue at play, and you should call a professional technician rather than continuously flipping the breaker.
4. Examine the Outdoor Unit
If the outdoor condenser is covered in debris, leaves, or plants, it can’t dissipate heat properly, resulting in your A/C not cooling your home. Carefully clean around the unit and make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance on all sides.
5. Inspect Air Vents
Are certain rooms cooler than others? Blocked or closed vents can restrict airflow, so double-check that all vents are open and not covered by furniture, curtains, toys, or any other miscellaneous items.
When It’s Time to Call the Professionals
If you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting steps outlined above and your A/C still isn’t blowing cold air, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. Licensed technicians are trained to dive into the complex problems of air conditioning failures while maintaining safety and protecting equipment longevity.
In many cases, if an air conditioner that is blowing hot or warm air cannot be fixed with one of the DIY steps above, the likely culprit is one or more of the following:
Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant plays a key role in cooling your home’s air. When the system is low on refrigerant, typically due to a leak, the cooling process becomes compromised, and all you may get is warm air. A professional will inspect for leaks using specialized tools, repair any damage, and recharge the refrigerant to the correct levels. It’s important to note that you can’t simply top off the refrigerant yourself. This task requires certification and precision — both of which only a qualified HVAC technician has.
Compressor and Capacitor Issues
The compressor circulates the refrigerant through the system to facilitate heat exchange. If it fails or its capacitor (essentially its battery) is damaged, your system won’t cool the air. Testing and replacing these components safely is a job best left to trained A/C installation and technicians.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
When evaporator coils freeze, airflow is restricted, and the air coming from your vents may feel warm. Frozen coils typically result from dirty filters, restricted airflow, or low refrigerant. A technician will safely thaw the coils, inspect for blockages, and identify any deeper issues to make sure the system doesn’t freeze up again.
Electrical and Sensor Failures
Your air conditioner relies on multiple electrical components and sensors to function properly. If a sensor goes bad or there’s a wiring issue, it can prevent the system from reaching the right temperature or even running at all. HVAC professionals use multimeters and diagnostic tools to locate faults, replace damaged sensors, and safely repair electrical connections.
Call for a Solution to Your A/C Problem Today
It’s never “all fun in the sun” when your air conditioning system stops blowing cold air and the sun quickly heats up your home. Thankfully, you can call on the experts at Alltemp Air for fast solutions. We have the tools, expertise, and dedication to restore your system and bring back the comfort you deserve. So, don’t sweat through another warm day hoping the system will fix itself. Contact our professionals today, and we’ll deliver A/C repair services that will keep you cool all season long.