You can hear your AC working, and you can feel air coming out of your vents… but it’s hot air. Why would an air conditioner blow hot air?
There are many issues that could cause this to happen. Some are simple enough you might be able to fix them yourself. For more complex problems, though, you’ll likely need the help of an HVAC professional.
Common Culprits for a Malfunctioning AC System
While it’s never a bad idea to call a qualified HVAC technician to look at your equipment, there are a few things you can check for yourself before making the call.
Clogged Air Filters
One of the most common reasons air conditioners stop working is that the air filter is dirty. Your air filter traps particles, like dirt, dust, and pollen, that would otherwise enter your house through the AC. However, when your filter gets clogged, it can keep air from getting into your system, making it less efficient. As a rule, you should change your air filter every 30-90 days.
Dirt and Debris on Your Outdoor Unit
It’s not uncommon for dirt or other debris to collect on your outdoor AC unit. This can prevent your air conditioner from releasing heat to the outside air and thus make it less effective. While you can clear away some external debris, you should leave the deep cleaning to the professionals.
Check Your Thermostat
Most thermostats have settings, including “off,” “on,” and “auto.” Generally, you want to use “auto” rather than “on,” since the latter usually means your fan will blow constantly, even if the cooling function hasn’t been activated.
In some cases, a lack of cold air from your AC system can stem from a problem with your thermostat. If you’re worried that your thermostat is malfunctioning, a qualified HVAC technician can check to see whether your settings need to be adjusted or your equipment requires repair.
Professional Fixes
When you can’t solve the problem on your own, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. Otherwise, you’re likely to further damage your AC, which means you’ll have a costlier bill once you finally do call on a technician.
Here are some common issues that cause AC units to blow hot air:
- Damaged condenser fan
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Insufficient refrigerant
- Air duct problems
An HVAC technician will use their training and experience to troubleshoot your AC and find the root cause of the problem so it doesn’t recur.
Preventative Maintenance
Have your equipment tuned up annually and you won’t need to worry as often about issues with your unit.
During this once-a-year maintenance appointment, your technician will ensure that everything is in working order and that any potential issues are fully investigated. Over time, preventative maintenance will pay for itself and give you peace of mind.
If your AC isn’t working up to snuff, contact the experts at Rowland Air. We’ll schedule your AC repair service right away, so you can stay cool all summer long!