AC not blowing out cold air? Here’s why.
As every Floridian is well aware, the summer season brings one simple truth – it’s time to switch on our air conditioning system! Just imagine what it would be like if these marvels of technology didn’t exist to cool your home and keep you comfortable even on the hottest days of the year.
One of the worst things that can happen during the summer is for your central air conditioner to have a problem that prevents it from doing its job. A common issue that you may experience is when your AC is not blowing cold air, so let’s take a look at several reasons why this may be occurring.
Wrong Thermostat Setting
Believe it or not, but in many instances where an AC is not working properly, it comes down to a simple thermostat setting. Someone may have inadvertently turned the equipment’s switch to the “off” position or set to “on” instead of “auto,” which means that the fan will run 24/7 whether the air is being cooled or not. If the thermostat is set properly, then test it to make sure that the unit isn’t broken and may require replacement.
Damaged Air Ducts
If your AC isn’t cooling off your home even though it’s running on a regular basis, then you may have issues with your air ducts. This typically happens when a tear is causing warm air from the attic to be pulled into the ducts and then mixed with the cool air that’s being distributed. Small holes or rips are often a do-it-yourself job, but you should leave bigger issues to the professionals to ensure proper repair.
Clogged Air Filter
Air filters serve an essential task by preventing dust and other contaminants from being recirculated back into your home’s air. Not only will a dirty air filter not be able to stop these contaminants, but it will also impede airflow and possibly stop cool air from being distributed. You should check your filter at least once per month and then either clean or replace it, depending on what type your system uses.
Blocked Outdoor Unit
Outdoor units are a common component of HVAC systems in many Florida households, which means they must be maintained, as well. Given their location, they’re susceptible to the accumulation of debris such as dust, leaves, branches, and even birds’ nests. This blockage can contribute to an AC not blowing cold air, so make sure you routinely remove the debris by hand and with a hose.
Damaged Heat Pump
Despite its name, a heat pump is used to both heat and cool off your home. If your AC system uses one and it becomes damaged, then this is probably why the equipment has stopped blowing cold air. This may also be due to an issue related to the heat pump that also affects traditional air conditioners, such as thermostat settings or a clogged air filter.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
It may sound strange, but if the evaporator coil in your central air conditioning system gets too cold, it will freeze up and won’t be able to distribute cool air throughout your home. When evaporative coils get too cold, you might experience frost on the refrigerant tubing, inflated utility bills, increased condensate drainage, and – as you might have guessed – inadequate cooling. The coil is difficult to access, so call an HVAC pro.
Refrigerant Leak
Your air conditioning system relies on refrigerant to cool off your home and will eventually run low, causing the air that it distributes to no longer be cool. Topping off the refrigerant levels should get everything back to normal. However, refrigerant leaks are always a possibility due to damage of the line that carries it, so be sure to contact an HVAC technician if you find yourself replacing the refrigerant more than usual.
Faulty Compressor
Your air conditioner’s compressor is what moves the system’s refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. If the compressor is damaged or wears out, then its ability to blow cold air will be diminished or simply nonexistent. Replacing a compressor is a costly endeavor, unfortunately, so have a licensed HVAC technician take a look at it to make sure that’s the problem.
Contact ACHV for Help if Your AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air
If your AC is not blowing cold air, then it’s important you call a professional right away. ACHV Services has years of experience in air conditioning maintenance and repair in Pinellas and the surrounding areas, and can take care of all other HVAC service needs. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (727) 453-2432 today to schedule a free consultation.
