Is your AC running but not cooling your home? This common issue can be frustrating, especially during a hot Bowie, MD, summer. Before calling in the professionals, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially resolve the issue on your own.
Here’s a guide from Grove Heating & Cooling to help you out with solving your air conditioner problems.
Check the Thermostat Settings
The first troubleshooting tip to try is to ensure that your thermostat is set correctly. Sometimes, the thermostat might be accidentally set to “fan” instead of “cool.” Make sure it’s on the “cool” setting and the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature.
Inspect the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your AC to run yet you don’t feel cold air blowing from the vents. Locate the air filter and check if it’s dirty or clogged with dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. If it is, replace it with a new one. Regularly changing your air filter is a must for maintaining good air quality and the system efficiency of AC units.
Examine the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Your AC’s outdoor unit, known as the condenser, needs to be free of obstructions to function properly. Check the unit for debris such as leaves, grass, or dirt that might be blocking airflow. Clear any obstructions and ensure there are at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
Inspect the Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil, located inside your home, can also cause issues if it’s dirty or frozen. If you notice ice buildup and a frozen evaporator coil, turn off your AC to allow it to thaw. A dirty coil should be cleaned, but this can be a bit tricky and might require assistance from an HVAC professional.
Check the Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, the problem might be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker. Locate your home’s electrical panel and check if the AC circuit breaker has tripped. If it has, reset it and see if the air conditioner starts cooling. However, if the breaker trips again, there could be an electrical issue that needs professional attention.
Ensure Windows and Doors are Sealed
Open windows or doors can allow cool air to escape, making it seem like your air conditioner isn’t cooling properly. Ensure all windows and doors are closed tightly. Additionally, check for any gaps or leaks that might need sealing to keep the cool air inside.
Issues That Stop Your AC Unit From Blowing Cold Air
If your air conditioner is running but not cooling, it could be due to a variety of system malfunctions. Here are some common AC malfunctions that might be at play, which require professional air conditioning repair to solve:
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home, and any leaks can reduce air conditioner efficiency. When refrigerant levels are low, the AC cannot absorb heat from your home properly. Signs of a refrigerant leak include hissing sounds, ice buildup on the refrigerant line, and diminished cooling capacity. Refrigerant leaks not only hinder cooling but can also damage your compressor if left untreated.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your AC system, pumping refrigerant through the unit. If the compressor is malfunctioning, it can’t effectively circulate refrigerant, leading to poor cooling. Common signs of a failing compressor include strange noises, hard starts, and the AC unit blowing warm air.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
A faulty thermostat can cause your cooling system to run inefficiently. If the thermostat is not reading the temperature correctly or is not sending the right signals to the AC unit, it can result in the system running but not cooling properly. Recalibrating or replacing the thermostat can often resolve this issue.
Blocked or Leaky Ducts
Air ducts are responsible for distributing cooled air throughout your home. If there are blockages or leaks in the ducts, the cool air may not reach your living spaces effectively. This can cause your AC unit to run continuously without properly cooling your home. Signs of duct issues include uneven cooling, poor indoor air quality, and higher-than-normal energy bills.
Electrical Issues
Various electrical components, such as capacitors and relays, are crucial for your AC system’s operation. A failure in any of these components can prevent your AC from cooling effectively. Electrical issues might manifest as the AC unit not turning on, running intermittently, or not cooling despite running.
Dirty Condenser Coil
The condenser coils, located in the outdoor unit, release the heat absorbed from your home. If the outdoor coil is dirty or clogged, it can’t dissipate heat efficiently, leading to poor cooling performance. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the condenser coils can prevent this issue.
Fan Problems
Your AC unit has two fans: one that blows indoor air over the evaporator coil to cool it and another that blows air over the outdoor unit’s condenser to release absorbed heat. If either of these fans malfunctions due to a faulty motor, worn belts, or excessive dirt, it can hinder the cooling process.
Grove Gets Your Air Conditioner Running Like New
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your AC is still running but not cooling, it’s time to call in the experts for air conditioning repair. At Grove Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help Bowie, MD, residents with all their HVAC needs. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix any issues to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable.
Contact us today to schedule a service appointment for your AC unit.
