Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Blowing Cold Air?

Have you ever come home to an air conditioner not blowing cold air? Nothing wrecks a summer weekend like a hot house on a hot day. What causes this type of air conditioner problem and what can you do about it?

Let’s take a look at the top three reasons your AC could be blowing warm air instead of cool:

1. Refrigerant leaks.

A consistent amount of circulating refrigerant is essential for an air conditioner to run properly. The only reason your refrigerant would be depleted is if there’s a leak. If your AC is blowing warm or room temperature air, it could be a sign that the refrigerant is low. You’ll find yourself adjusting the thermostat to lower and lower temperatures without feeling relief. If this happens, it’s important to call in a professional HVAC technician to repair the leak, as refrigerant can be dangerous if not handled properly.

2. Frozen AC units.

A frozen air conditioner is one of the most common reasons for warm air coming from your AC. The evaporator coils can freeze and prevent the unit from doing its job. The primary reasons for frozen coils include dirty air filters, a broken fan, blocked condensate lines or drains, or refrigerant leaks. If any of these happen, it sets off a chain of events: First, condensation can build up on the evaporator coils. That condensation then freezes and prevents the coils from absorbing heat. Not only can this lead to water around the unit, which can lead to further damage in your home, but it can also result in a breakdown of the compressor, which can be a costly repair. If you believe your air conditioner may be frozen, contact your Air Management for professional services.

3. Blown breakers.

A blown or tripped breaker can be the cause of an air conditioner breakdown, including a frozen unit. There’s more than one reason for a blown breaker on your HVAC system. These symptoms often indicate a need for routine maintenance.

Tips:

If your system isn’t serviced regularly (generally once a year before the summer cooling season) the unit can get dirty. Dirt may build up on the evaporator coils, resulting in frozen coils, or an overworked machine. When an air conditioner pulls more power, it means more heat in the unit. When the power and heat increases, it can trip the breaker.

Changing the air filter regularly in combination with regular service from a certified HVAC technician can prevent a blown breaker and frozen coils. If you suspect your breaker has blown or tripped due to an overactive air conditioner, contact Air Management for a professional tune-up.