Is your AC not blowing cool air? It is not something you want to do. This is not only uncomfortable but can also pose health risks for you, your family, and any pets in your home.
You should act immediately if you become aware of a problem. Don’t wait for the heat to become unbearable. If in doubt, contact a professional for an HVAC repair call.
There are many reasons your HVAC unit may stop circulating cold air. Some problems can be fixed quickly, while others may require expert assistance.
These are the things you should look out for if your AC stops blowing cold air.
1. Low refrigerant or leaking
The chemical that sets the entire process in motion, most commonly Puron or R410A is called the refrigerant.
The refrigerant could be the reason your central AC stops blowing cool air. It could be that the unit is running low on refrigerant and needs to be refilled.
Leakage is the most common cause. Leakage can not only prevent the AC unit from cooling efficiently, but it can also cause other problems within the home. If the AC unit is not cool enough, humidity levels in your home can rise, making it feel warmer than inside. This leaking happened when we suffered from a tornado and we had to call Water Damage Restoration Phoenix and they restored our complete house.
You should immediately contact an HVAC professional if you suspect that there is a refrigerant problem. It is not difficult to identify and repair a refrigerant leak if it is small.
2. The Filter is Dirty/Clogged
Filters that are clogged or dirty are another common problem for AC units. These filters trap hair, pollen, lint and dust all year. They can quickly become full if not changed frequently.
This causes air to stop flowing properly into your home. Your AC unit will shut down if it doesn’t have enough air. The inside temperature can soar if the air conditioner is not working properly. Clogged filters can cause damage to parts faster than necessary if left unchecked. This can cause damage to the condenser coil and evaporator coil, which in turn can lead to a larger problem.
The filters should also be cleaned regularly. You may have to change the filter more frequently if you have pets.
You should be able to change indoor air filters easily by yourself. An AC technician can assist you if you have any questions about which filter is best for your needs.
3. The Evaporator Coil and Condenser are both at Risk
While the filters described above will do their best to keep coils clean and running at peak performance, they can still wear down over time.
Your indoor evaporator coil could become irritated by the constant moisture. UV lights can help prevent this from happening and keep your home’s air clean. If the refrigerant level is low, coils can freeze.
Problems with the coils can cause serious disruption to the air conditioner unit. An HVAC professional should inspect the problem as soon as possible.
Over time, the condenser may also become worn out. If your air conditioner stops blowing cold air, and there is no other cause, you should have it checked.
4. Blocked or clogged registers
A clogged or blocked register (or vent), can block airflow just like air filters. The return air register draws air into the system while the supply vents bring conditioned air into your home. Clogs in either cause problems.
The cooling system is connected to the ventilation system throughout the house. If there are any blockages or leaks in the ductwork it can affect the cooling. Your attic may be experiencing cold air leakage if there is a hole or tear in the ductwork. Rodents such as rats and mice can cause damage to your ductwork, causing leaks that could affect the cooling of your system.
If there is something restricting air flow near the vent, the only room that feels warmer than the rest of your house may be affected. This is an indication that there may be a ventilation issue in your office or home.
You should also keep in mind that vents can sometimes be accidentally closed. If a single room is particularly warm, make sure that the supply vent is open.
Your HVAC system will eventually become more expensive to repair. It may be time for to replace your HVAC system.
5. AC not Blowing Cold Air – Thermostat Issue
The thermostat is the heart of all action. The thermostat controls the AC’s ability to turn on or off. First, make sure that the thermostat settings have not been altered. It should be set to either auto or cool. Sometimes, the thermostat is set to heat rather than cool.
If the thermostat is correctly set and still does not turn on, it could be the thermostat. If the thermostat needs batteries, replace them if needed. If this does not solve the problem, call an AC professional.
