Are you in the frustrating scenario where your AC is not blowing cold air? You’ve come to the right place! Your AC could be failing to deliver the cool air it should for a number of reasons. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the most common causes of an AC not blowing cold air and what you can do about it.
Clogged Air Filter
When’s the last time you changed your air filter? A clogged filter restricts airflow and reduces the system’s ability to cool the air.
What to do:
- Find the filter (usually near the air handler unit) and turn off the AC.
- Remove the filter and inspect it for dust and dirt buildup.
- Replace the filter if it’s dirty with a new one of the correct size and type.
Thermostat Problem
It could be something as simple as incorrect settings on your thermostat or a thermostat that’s failing to communicate with your air conditioner.
What to do:
- Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and to a temperature lower than the current room temperature.
- If your thermostat is on “fan” only, the fan will circulate indoor air but not cooled air.
- Change the batteries.
- Call us for professional help if the other troubleshooting tips don’t work.
No Power Supply
Sometimes the AC can trip the breaker. It could be that your unit is not getting any power.
What to do:
- Check that the system is set to “ON”.
- Confirm that a breaker has not been tripped or a fuse blown. Reset it if it has.
Obstructed Condenser Coil
If the condenser coil is clogged with dirt, leaves, or debris, it can’t expel heat efficiently, affecting the cool air output.
What to do:
- Turn off the AC system and locate the condenser unit outside.
- Visually inspect the coil for debris buildup. Be careful not to bend the delicate fins.
- You can carefully remove leaves and large debris by hand.
- If the coil is heavily clogged, call Team Harding.
Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels mean there’s less coolant circulating, making it hard to achieve cold air. A refrigerant leak is the most likely cause of low levels.
What to do:
- Adding refrigerant requires a certified technician. If you suspect low refrigerant, call us to diagnose the leak, repair it, and recharge the system.
Incorrectly-Sized AC
Whether this is a recurring issue or you’ve just moved into a new home and you’re having problems with the cooling system, it could be due to an improperly-sized unit. An AC that doesn’t suit the house can lead to a variety of problems.
What to do:
- There’s no simple solution for this; it requires a professional inspection and replacement with the correct-sized AC.
- Contact us to evaluate the situation and recommend an appropriate solution.
Frozen Coil
An evaporator coil that’s clogged with dirt or dust can become too cold and freeze. This blocks airflow and prevents the circulation of cool air.
What to do:
- Turn off the AC system and let the ice melt naturally. This can take several hours. Running the fan only can help circulate air and speed up the thawing process.
- If the freezing recurs, consult an HVAC technician.
Skipped Maintenance
Could the lack of cold air be the result of skipping regular preventative maintenance?
What to do:
- Contact us to schedule a maintenance appointment as soon as possible.
- Consider professional seasonal cleaning and tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly.
- Invest in a Harding Club Membership to make it easier to stay on top of regular maintenance.
Team Harding Keeps You Cool
Keep this handy guide for future reference in case you have similar issues with your AC again. And remember that routine maintenance is key to maintaining the cool comfort your family relies on during the hot summer months. If you haven’t scheduled pre-summer maintenance yet, don’t delay any longer!
AC not blowing cold air?
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Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
