Summers in Southwest Florida can be brutally hot, with temperatures often climbing to suffocating heights. With minimal heat relief throughout the rest of the year, the last thing you want is to come home to an air conditioner that’s blowing warm, sticky air.
If your AC is not cooling, don’t panic. Many air conditioning issues can be diagnosed and repaired with a few simple troubleshooting strategies. Let’s review some of the steps you can take when your air conditioner isn’t cooling.
Check & Reset Your Thermostat Settings
- Verify the system is set to “Automatic” instead of just “Fan.”
- Ensure the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature.
- Simple setting mistakes can prevent proper cooling, so reset your thermostat if needed.
Inspect and Replace Dirty Filters
- Check your air filters every 2-3 months, especially if you have pets.
- Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
- Replace or clean filters to improve system performance.
Clear Condensation Drain Lines
- Look for mold or algae blockages in the drain line, as these prevent proper system function.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum to apply suction at the end of the drain line and remove potential clogs.
- Prevent system shutdowns by ensuring moisture flow is unrestricted.
Investigate Potential Duct Issues
- Check for air leaks or disconnected ductwork.
- Verify cool air is reaching all room registers.
- Look for visible issues in areas like unfinished basements.
Examine the External Compressor Unit
- Ensure adequate airflow by clearing space around the outdoor compressor unit.
- Remove surrounding debris, leaves, and vegetation.
- Prevent overheating and optimize cooling capacity by removing any objects from the top of the unit.
Look For and Clean Dirty Coils
- Your AC relies on two critical sets of coils to function effectively: the condenser coils in the outdoor compressor unit and the evaporator coils near the indoor blower.
- When coils become dirty, they struggle to transfer heat efficiently, resulting in reduced cooling capacity.
- Shut off your system and thoroughly clean the coils using specialized cleaners with spray applicators.
Upgrade Your Air Conditioner
- Incorrect air conditioner sizing is a common yet overlooked issue that can dramatically impact your home’s comfort.
- As a general rule, 1 ton of cooling (12,000 BTUs) is required for every 400 square feet of space.
- When upgrading to a more powerful air conditioner, always hire a professional AC installation technician to perform a comprehensive load calculation for precise unit sizing.
Fix Blown Fuses or Reset Tripped Circuit Breakers
- Fuses and circuit breakers activate when the AC motor experiences excessive strain or electrical connections become faulty.
- Look for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers and try resetting them using the switch in your electrical panel.
- Due to the safety issues associated with working with electricity, consult a licensed HVAC technician if the issues persist.
Easy, DIY Fix Tips
As you can see, there are many reasons why your AC isn’t blowing cool air. Always call an HVAC professional if you feel unsure or unsafe about diagnosing and repairing these issues yourself.
Below is a recap of the DIY repairs you can make before calling an expert:
- Check and reset your thermostat.
- Clean or replace dirty filters.
- Examine and clear ductwork and external compressor units of debris.
- Clean dirty condenser coils and blocked drain lines.
- Test for blown fuses and reset tripped circuit breakers.
Know When It’s Time To Call Professionals
If you’ve attempted these basic troubleshooting tips and your AC is still not cooling, it’s time to consult with an HVAC expert. Professional technicians are industry-trained to solve complex heating and cooling problems. They’re also certified to handle federally regulated AC accessories such as refrigerants. Depending on the age of your AC, a professional HVAC technician will also know if it’s time to replace your old system with a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my AC blow warm air instead of cold?
When your AC blows warm air, it’s typically a sign of an underlying system malfunction. Several critical issues can cause this problem, including:
- Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels prevent the system from effectively absorbing and removing heat from your home’s air.
- Clogged Air Filters: Restricted airflow reduces the system’s cooling efficiency, making it impossible to properly cool your space.
- Dirty Condenser Coils: Accumulated dirt prevents heat dissipation, causing the system to struggle with cooling.
- Compressor Failures: A malfunctioning compressor cannot circulate refrigerant effectively.
- Thermostat Misconfigurations: Incorrect settings can prevent the cooling cycle from initiating properly.
Should I turn off my AC if it’s not cooling properly?
In most cases, turning off your AC can be a helpful troubleshooting step as it allows you to safely investigate potential issues without risking further system damage. Turning the system off can also help reset some minor electrical or mechanical glitches. If the problem is simply a thermostat setting, you may not need to completely shut down the system.
What is the ideal thermostat setting to ensure effective cooling?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy and Energy Star, 78°F is the recommended summer thermostat setting for several reasons, the biggest being:
Energy Efficiency Benefits
- Optimal balance between comfort and energy consumption.
- Potential for significant electricity bill savings.
- Reduces overall system strain.
Comfort Considerations
- Comfortable for most people.
- Helps manage humidity levels.
- Allows for personal adjustment based on individual preferences.
Why is my room hot with the AC on?
Multiple factors can contribute to a hot room despite your AC running:
System-Related Issues:
- Clogged or dirty air filters
- Blocked or closed air vents
- Leaky or damaged ductwork
- Refrigerant leaks
- Undersized AC unit for the space
Home Environment Factors:
- Poor room insulation
- Large windows with direct sunlight
- Heat-generating appliances
- High outdoor temperatures
- Inadequate air circulation
Recommended Actions:
- Check and replace air filters.
- Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed.
- Inspect ductwork for potential leaks.
- Evaluate your home’s insulation and cooling needs with help from a professional HVAC technician.
AC Not Cooling? Call Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC
Since 2000, Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC has been helping homeowners in Southwest Florida keep their cool with professional AC repair and installation services. Everyone from our professional sales team, repair technicians, and maintenance technicians has been through extensive training, using what they’ve learned to educate our customers on the latest AC products and troubleshooting tips.
As a top “Lennox Centurion” dealer, “Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor,” and Bryant Authorized Air Conditioning Contractor, our team is ready to improve your home with the benefits of AC maintenance.
Our Credentials
- We are licensed and insured.
- We average a 98% satisfaction score from our customers.
- Angie’s List Super Service Award 6 years in a row.
- We are a member of the Better Business Bureau, with an A+ Accredited Rating.
- Women- and veteran-led.
- Every employee is background-checked and approved for a badge, demonstrating our dedication to the safety, security, and well-being of both our employees and our customers.
Our Other HVAC Services
Reach Out Today for Reliable AC Services
Stop asking yourself, “Why is my air conditioner not cooling?” Take proactive steps to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable all year round. At Gulf Shore Cooling, LLC, we offer energy-saving memberships that include two annual inspections per year and a 15% discount on repair services. We’re ready to provide you with top-quality AC maintenance service, backed by decades of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Call our office to speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives or schedule online!
