Why is my AC Blowing Hot Air?

The worst-case scenario on a blistering hot day is to have warm air blowing from your vents. A quick check outdoors may reveal that cool air is coming out of the fan of your outdoor AC unit — which should not be happening. The wrong step to take is to continue to adjust the thermostat to lower and lower temperatures. All that does is force your AC to run harder and it still won’t get any cooler and can lead to other problems like frozen evaporator coils. Before you melt down (literally), there are a few things you can check for yourself before calling in an AC repair call.

Common Issues With Air Conditioners

Your Thermostat is Set Incorrectly

Sometimes, homeowners may erroneously set the thermostat to “FAN,” thinking that will aid cool air circulation flow. What that does is simply blow air, whether it’s warm or cool, continuously through your home. The thermostat should be set to “AUTO,” so it will only blow out cool air.

Power to the outdoor unit is off

Perhaps you’ve blown a fuse, or the circuit breaker has tripped. Another problem could be that the outdoor AC unit is dirty or blocked by shrubbery or other foliage. Clear away the area so that all components of the unit are free of obstructions. This also improves access for service technicians.

Dirty air filters

Something as simple as dirty air filters could cause your AC to not run properly. It’s advised to change your system’s air filters every three months, more frequently, if you live in a dry, dusty climate, smoke, or have indoor pets.

Other Problems Requiring Expert Diagnosis and Repair

Low on refrigerant

If your AC is low on refrigerant, then it will run and run, trying to reach your desired temperature. This usually means there’s a refrigerant leak, which needs to be repaired by a licensed HVAC professional. One tip-off is if you see frost built up on the unit’s evaporator coils. Dirty or frozen evaporator coils can also cause cooling problems.

Malfunctioning compressor

The compressor is a major component of your AC system. When not working properly, it’s unable to use refrigerant to convert gas to liquid to cool the air. When the compressor is malfunctioning, then the AC blows hot air.

Leaking ducts

Sometimes, the problem with the AC isn’t the AC at all. Cracks and holes in your ductwork allow warm air to enter the system, which then blows through your ducts. Seal any leaks in your ductwork so you aren’t throwing away money trying to cool your home.

Care Heating & Cooling AC Repair

Seasonal AC maintenance can detect and remedy any of these problems well before hot summer heat and humidity settle in, so you aren’t faced with an emergency hvac situation. If you want to schedule an AC tune-up or your AC isn’t cooling your home as it should, reach out to CARE Heating & Cooling for an AC repair appointment. Call 614-841-1555 or use our online contact form. We’ll schedule an appointment with one of our licensed HVAC specialists who will get your AC running properly and your home cooled down as soon as possible.