Today we’re answering the common question, “Why is my AC running but not cooling?”
Air conditioners are a lifesaver in the summer heat in SWFL. But when they stop cooling, it can be stressful, and uncomfortable! The good news is that it doesn’t always require a call to a professional to fix the issue. Sometimes, there’s an easy DIY solution you can try. Here’s what you need to know if your air conditioner is running but not cooling.
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
This could be happening for a variety of reasons. There are some common air conditioner problems you could potentially fix yourself without calling in the HVAC professionals. Keep in mind that you don’t have to fix anything yourself if you don’t want to, Dolphin Cooling is happy to come out for any AC repair, no matter how small. Here are some possible causes for your AC running but not cooling.
Thermostat Issues
Your first step will be checking the thermostat settings. Make sure all the settings are correct and that the temperature is set to your desired temperature. If it’s set too low, the air conditioner won’t be able to cool the room. You may also want to check for anything that may be blocking the thermostat’s sensors, as this can prevent it from reading the temperature correctly.
Your thermostat should be set to “cool” and your preferred temperature. If any of your settings are incorrect, correct them and wait a few minutes to see if that fixes the issue. If your thermostat doesn’t appear to be the issue, move on to the next possibility. Keep in mind that a fault thermostat is a common issue that you may not be able to diagnose on your own. If it appears to be working correctly, check other possible issues. If you can’t figure out the problem, a professional HVAC technician can test your thermostat.
Clogged Air Filter
Next, you should check the air filters. A dirty air filter becomes a clogged filter and can prevent the air conditioner from working properly because it prevents or seriously hinders air flow. Clean or replace the system’s air filter as necessary. If you have a reusable filter, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly clean and maintain it. If the filter needed to be replaced, do so and then wait to see if you start getting cool air. If a dirty filter was the problem, once you have better airflow then you should start to feel cooler air.
Condenser Unit Issue
If the filter is clean, the next step is to check the condenser unit. This is the outside unit that contains the compressor, fan, and condenser coil. Make sure the power is on and that the fan is running. If it’s not running with the power on, there may be an issue with the fan motor or the capacitor. This is an electrical issue that you’ll need a professional to handle. Not only are HVAC technicians trained and licensed for this and can safely make the repair, but it can also be an issue of potentially voiding your unit’s warranty if you make the repair yourself.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
If the condenser unit is running, the next step is to check the evaporator coil. This is the coil inside the house. If it’s dirty or clogged, it won’t be able to absorb the heat from the air, preventing the air conditioner from cooling the room. You can use a soft brush to gently remove any dust or debris.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Finally, you should have a licensed HVAC technician check the refrigerant lines in your AC system. If the levels are low, the air conditioner won’t be able to cool. AC systems don’t run low on refrigerant unless they have a leak. You’ll need a pro to both diagnose and fix a refrigerant leak.
AC Breakdown Prevention
Your AC works hard and needs routine maintenance to prevent the most common causes of breakdowns for AC systems. Preventing AC issues, especially in the summer months, is a good idea when you’re living in SWFL! Regular maintenance will extend the life of your system and save you money and stress in the long run.
Schedule a Repair
Dolphin Cooling has a team of licensed and trained technicians ready to diagnose and repair your AC issues. We are happy to come to your rescue for simple problems, brand new installation, and everything in between. If you need professional help with your AC unit, call today to schedule a free estimate with the HVAC experts at Dolphin Cooling and Heating.