Is your air conditioner only blowing out hot air? If so, this could be due to several reasons which may require AC repair services to resolve it for you.
When your AC isn’t working correctly, it’s a nightmare. Having to sleep in hot and humid conditions isn’t fun and often leaves you tired in the morning. After several days, this can really take a toll on you by affecting your focus and irritability.
Plus, you’ve likely paid good money for your AC and want to ensure you get great value. So, it’s important to identify the root of the problem as soon as possible so you can get back to normal.
As we’ve mentioned, several things may be causing your AC system not to function. Throughout this article, we’ll share five potential reasons why it may be blowing warm air and what to do to fix it.
Read on for more information.
1. The Thermostat is on the Wrong Setting
It may sound unlikely or ridiculous, but the problem may be your thermostat settings.
Either the temperature may be too high, or it’s set to constant fan mode. In both instances, warm or hot air is going to be circulating throughout your home.
But thankfully, it’s a very simple problem to fix.
So, to check whether this is the problem, you should first ask anyone you live with if they have touched the thermostat recently. If so, there’s a strong possibility they’ve changed the settings without realizing it.
Next, go to your thermostat and ensure it’s set to cool. If it’s on heat or constant fan mode, then switch it over. It’s important to know that fan mode can sometimes be labeled as ‘on.’
Once you’re sure it’s set to cool mode, then check the temperature. If it’s set too high, turn it down and wait a few minutes. You should start to feel cooler air circulating throughout your home.
2. Your Air Filter Is Dirty
Inside or around your indoor air handler unit, there may be a filter.
Air filters play an important role as it traps dust, dirt, and other particles before entering the unit. This ensures the components inside are kept clean and operating at maximum efficiency.
Plus, it helps to keep your indoor air cleaner which can help to prevent allergies or respiratory problems.
If your air filter is dirty, then it can reduce airflow as well as cooling. It may also cause the system to shut down depending on how blocked it is.
So, if your thermostat is on the correct settings, the next thing to check is the air filter. Turn the entire system off and carefully remove the filter for inspection.
If it’s covered in dust and dirt, then (depending on the unit type) replace it or clean it and reattach. You should then turn the system back on, wait a few minutes and check whether there’s cool air circulating throughout your home.
3. Condenser Unit Coil Blockage
To check this, you’ll need to go outside to the condenser unit.
Wrapped around the outside of the unit will be a large coil. Due to being located outside, it’s common for dirt and other debris such as grass to clog the coil.
When this happens, it can result in a lack of cool air, low energy efficiency, and even a shut down of the AC system.
You’ll be pleased to know that you can clean the coil yourself to resolve the problem, but be careful. To clean it, you can either sweep away the debris with a small brush, use a vacuum to suck the dirt out, or gently wash it down with a hose.
Just remember to shut your system off before starting to prevent any damage.
Once you have cleaned the coil, turn the system back on and check for cool air. If this hasn’t solved the problem, then you’ll need to call an emergency AC repair company.
4. Low Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant is an essential chemical within the air conditioning system. It works by absorbing heat from the surrounding air and is vital in the cooling process.
If there is a refrigerant leak, your AC will not be running efficiently, and no cool air will be entering your home. So, if your AC system has been faulty for a while and you can’t seem to figure out why, there’s a good chance this is the problem.
Signs of refrigerant leaks include:
- Hissing noises
- A build-up of ice on the outside unit
If you notice any of these or just want it checked out, you’ll need to contact AC repair services.
5. Your AC Is Not Suitable For Your Home
When temperatures are moderate, you may find no issues with your AC. But, if you’re finding problems only occur when outside temperatures rise, then you might have an undersized system.
This is where your AC can’t cool your home effectively because it’s unsuitable.
This can happen if you didn’t own the home when the system was installed or the HVAC technician gave poor advice. But whatever the reason, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible.
Contact a professional who can assess the situation and advise on a more suitable system.
Common AC Repair Problems You Should Know
As you can see, there are many reasons why your AC might not be operating properly.
Ensure you check everything we have suggested to try and identify the problem yourself. In some cases, it’s an easy fix, and you’ll have cool air again in no time. Yet, in other cases, it’s going to require an expert to carry out an AC repair.
If you think you need some professional advice, don’t hesitate to contact us to find out how we can help.
