Originally posted on https://richmondplumbingandhvac.com/5-reasons-why-your-ac-is-not-blowing-cold-air-and-how-to-solve-it/

 

Summer is a time for backyard barbecues, vacations, and all-around fun. But if your air conditioner is not blowing cold air, it can make life miserable.

The A/C system in your home is what keeps you comfortable and cool. When it’s not operating as it should, it can cause stress and possibly even some pretty expensive repairs.

Take a closer look and read on to learn about five common issues that can cause this problem and what you can do to solve them.

1. Your Thermostat is Set Incorrectly

Sometimes, your thermostat could be set too high and won’t trigger the air conditioning unit to turn on. Make sure your thermostat is set to “auto” instead of “on” so it knows to turn on automatically when temperatures get too high.

Check to ensure that the shut-off switch is flipped and that all breakers are working. A tripped breaker is another common cause for lack of cold air.

If the breaker looks good and the shut-off switch is on, reset the thermostat and program it to a few degrees cooler. In a few minutes, you should start to feel the air begin to cool down again.

Place your hand over the air vents to see if you notice the cold air beginning to blow. This simple fix is quick, easy, and free.

2. Your Air Filter is Clogged

If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air, it could be as simple as a dirty or clogged air filter. The air filter is what keeps excess dust, pet dander, and dirt from floating through the air when the A/C is on.

When the filter gets clogged, it can cause your unit to stop working altogether. Dirty air filters will restrict the air flow in your home, and they can also cause damage to the unit if they’re too bad.

Always try to change your air or furnace filter monthly. This will ensure that it’s running cleanly and you’re getting the air flow you need to stay comfortable.

You can purchase air filters at most home improvement stores, so keep a stash handy. This will make it much easier for you to change it out every month.

3. If Your Air Conditioner Is Not Blowing Cold Air, It Could Be the Condenser

Your home’s A/C system likely uses an outdoor unit called a condenser. As dirt and other debris build up, it can get in the way of the condenser being able to operate properly.

With a dirty condenser, the air conditioning unit needs to work a lot harder to pull in the air from the outside. It needs to be clean and clear in order to cool this air.

Much like a clogged air filter, you can easily fix this issue. Be very careful when you clean it and make sure you don’t break or bend any parts.

Use a mild soap and water and gently wipe dirt and grime away with a rag or sponge. If you’d rather use a hose to spray it off, just make sure you use it on a gentle setting.

A quality waterproof cover can help to protect your condenser and eliminate the buildup of excess debris. Keep in mind you should only use this cover when the A/C is not turned on, otherwise, the condenser cannot pull in the air and cool it down.

4. You Could Have a Refrigerant Leak

The refrigerant in your unit is cycled between the indoor and outdoor components and the condenser. This refrigerant expands as it cycles through and you should never need to replace it since it should never run out.

However, if you have a leak anywhere in the system, it can make it almost impossible for the air to stay consistently cool. If you hear a strange hissing noise when you turn the air conditioner on, you may have a leak.

Another possible sign of a leak is icy buildup starting to form on the air conditioning unit. This buildup can cause your unit to work harder and run for a lot longer before the air begins to cool.

If you suspect a leak, you should stop using your air conditioner and call a professional who can assess the problem. Never try to fix it yourself, as these issues require a trained specialist.

5. Other Possible Causes

If you’ve run through these scenarios and you’re still having issues with cold air blowing, it could be caused by something else entirely. Check your ductwork to ensure that there are no holes or damage. Holes in the ductwork can cause cold air to escape.

Have your air conditioner inspected before summer starts so you can determine if there are any issues before it gets too hot. You should also make sure there are no underlying mechanical issues.

With proper maintenance and some due diligence, your air conditioner should be producing ice-cold air all summer long.

Keep Your A/C in Tip-Top Shape

If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air, there are several things you can do yourself to remedy the problem. From a new, clean air filter to the right thermostat setting, these easy fixes can mean the difference between comfort and misery.

When in doubt, it’s always best to enlist the help of a trained professional who understands the inner workings of heating and cooling systems. With a trained eye, you can troubleshoot the problem and get your house comfy and cool again.

For more information about troubleshooting your home’s electrical, plumbing problems, water heater, and cooling be sure to visit our website.