Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air? Common Causes & How To Fix It
Few things are more frustrating on a hot summer day than realizing that warm air is coming from your AC vents. If your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home, identifying the root cause is the first step to restoring your comfort.
For over 120 years, Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical has served Lancaster homeowners with professional AC services, and it’s safe to say we’ve learned a thing or two. Let’s explore some common causes and what you can do to get your system back on track as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Warm Air From Your AC
There are several common issues that could be behind an AC blowing warm air. Here’s what might be going wrong:
- Refrigerant leaks: If your AC system has a refrigerant leak, it won’t be able to absorb and release heat properly, leading to warm air blowing from the vents. Only a licensed technician should repair refrigerant leaks and recharge the system.
- Frozen evaporator coils: When evaporator coils freeze, airflow becomes restricted, and your AC can’t cool your home effectively. This can happen due to clogged air filters, low refrigerant, or limited airflow from blocked vents or dirty coils.
- Thermostat malfunctions: A faulty thermostat can misread your home’s temperature, sending the wrong signals to your AC. If the sensor is broken or the settings are incorrect, you may get warm air instead of cool.
- Clogged air filters: When filters become dirty, they limit the airflow through the system. Restricted airflow can cause the system to overheat or underperform, making your AC blow warm air.
How To Troubleshoot & Fix Your AC Blowing Warm Air
Some AC issues can be fixed with a little DIY troubleshooting. Try these steps before calling in the pros:
- Check the thermostat settings: Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than your home’s current indoor temperature.
- Inspect the air filters: Dirty filters are a common culprit. Check and replace them if necessary to improve airflow and restore cooling.
- Check for ice on coils: If you see ice buildup on your indoor AC unit, turn off the system and call an HVAC professional.
When To Call an AC Professional
While DIY fixes can sometimes solve the problem, other situations require expert help. You should contact a licensed HVAC professional when:
- You see frozen coils.
- The thermostat is malfunctioning or not responding.
- Refrigerant levels are low and need to be replenished.
- Your AC is making loud grinding or squealing noises.
- The AC unit requires disassembly or advanced repair.
If you notice any of the signs above, call the pros at Lancaster Plumbing & Heating. We provide reliable AC repair in Lancaster, offering thorough diagnostics and solutions for all AC issues.
Why Choose Us?
Lancaster Plumbing & Heating offers 24/7 emergency AC repair and maintenance services to keep your air conditioner running efficiently year-round. With over a century of service in Lancaster, our expert team delivers professional AC repairs you can count on.
Schedule AC repair with Lancaster Plumbing & Heating today to restore comfort to your home!