If your A/C is blowing hot air or just isn’t blowing air that’s cool enough, you’ve got a problem. But why would an air conditioner not produce cool air? There are a variety of possible reasons; some you can address yourself and some you’ll want to seek professional help to handle.
The Settings Are Wrong
Is the thermostat setting on “heat” rather than “cool”? If your A/C is blowing hot air, it could mean that the thermostat is set to “fan only” or “on.” If that’s the case, the fan will run even when the air conditioner hasn’t been triggered by the thermostat’s temperature setting. Turn the fan setting to “auto” for regular operation with your cooling system.
The Air Filter Is Dirty
This won’t make the A/C blow warm or hot air, but a clogged air filter will force the machine to work longer and harder to cool your home to your desired setting. Get in a monthly routine of checking the air filter and changing it when it looks dirty.
The Coils Are Dirty
If either the inside evaporator coil or outside condensing coil are coated with dust and muck, this will impede the vital heat-exchange process and force the system to work harder and longer to cool your home. Ask a professional HVAC technician to properly clean the coils.
The Compressor Isn’t Getting Power
Make sure the outside condenser/compressor unit is switched on or has power. If not, the inside air handler may continue to operate without supplying cool air. Also, make sure yard debris, such as leaves and grass clippings, isn’t obstructing airflow to the condensing coil.
Refrigerant Is Low
If your A/C system is leaking refrigerant or was low to begin with, it may result in reduced performance in the form of less cool air. A professional technician will need to recharge the refrigerant and check for leaks.
For more tips on troubleshooting problems with the cooling system in your Twin Cities area home, please contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/Cs and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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