6 Reasons Why Your AC Is Running But Not Blowing Cold Air

AC running but not blowing cold air

AC not blowing cold air? With Amarillo summer temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees, a properly functioning AC system is crucial. If your AC is running but not cooling your house, you may face high energy bills and undue wear on your system in addition to having sweltering rooms.

Regular maintenance from Amarillo Air Conditioning technicians can help your AC run optimally on even the hottest days. Let’s get into DIY troubleshooting tips and learn when it’s time to call the pros with these reasons why your AC unit may not be blowing cold air: 

1. Thermostat Issues

Usually the simplest to diagnose and fix, your thermostat is the first place to check whenever your AC system isn’t working as it should. Make sure it’s set to cool and the temperature setting is correct. Ensure that it’s turned on and has fresh batteries, then switch it on to heat before turning it to cooling mode. Wait a few minutes, then check for cold air blowing from your registers.

Fixing the settings doesn’t always address all thermostat issues. If you notice a malfunctioning screen, incorrect temperature readings, or lacking power, contact an HVAC technician for expert help.

2. Clogged Air Filter

Your AC’s air filter gathers dust, dander, and other types of debris before it enters the unit to keep your home’s air clean. Without replacement or service every one to three months, air filters can accumulate debris that blocks airflow and disrupts cooling, hurting overall efficiency.

The air filter is usually found in your system’s return air duct, which is a metal grate located somewhere on either the wall, floor, or ceiling in your home. Turn the system off, remove the filter, and replace it if necessary, checking your system manual or the old filter for the correct replacement model. An air conditioning specialist from our team can also assist with replacement during service calls or routine maintenance.

3. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a chemical that helps extract heat from the air before it flows outside. If the refrigerant is leaking or low, it can result in poor AC performance and even shut your system down entirely, stopping the flow of cold indoor air.

Besides poor cooling, ice on the evaporator coils or bubbling and hissing signs when the unit is off can be signs that you have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is hazardous, so contact a qualified AC contractor for repairs. 

4. Dirty Condenser Coils

The outdoor condenser draws air through coils to pull heat from your home. Contaminants such as grass, dirt, and other debris can accumulate and clog the coil, causing your system to incorrectly blow warm air, operate inefficiently, and even shut down.

Inspect and gently clean debris from the condenser using a vacuum or a hose, or call a technician for professional maintenance.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coil

Several issues can result in a frozen evaporator coil, which in turn limits cold air flow. Common signs of a frozen evaporator coil include:

  • Increased energy bills
  • Excessive condensate runoff
  • Frost on the copper refrigerant tubing

The cause and repair of a frozen evaporator coil can be complex, so it’s best left to AC technicians.

6. Poor Ductwork

If your AC system’s ductwork has blocks, leaks, or is improperly installed, it can impede airflow. Look for issues such as limited airflow from supply vents, high energy bills, rattling or whistling noises, or poor air quality. 

While patching a small leak or clearing a block is easy enough, a technician should handle complex AC repairs or maintenance.

AC Unit Not Cooling? Call Amarillo Air to Beat Heat!

A dip in the lake isn’t always enough to escape the Panhandle’s summer heat — if your AC is on but not cooling, a visit from a skilled HVAC technician from Amarillo Air Conditioning can help return refreshing air to your home. And if you haven’t scheduled preventive maintenance for the cooling season, now is a great time for a tune-up that can help prevent AC issues during the hottest time of the year. Contact us today to schedule repairs or maintenance.

CONTACT Amarillo Air Conditioning, Inc.

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Our installation technicians are the best in skill, attitude and workmanship. They will care for your home and complete the job with speed and precision. They will not wear shoes on your carpets. They will clean up when they are finished and take personal responsibility for your satisfaction. They will not smoke or swear in your home and they are drug-free. If, when they have finished in your home, they have not performed in accordance with these high standards, we won't consider the job done until you are satisfied with the results.