Little compares with the frustration of an air conditioner that blows only warm air on hot summer days. This is an unfortunately common problem, and while some issues can be addressed by homeowners, others require professional diagnosis. Understanding the common reasons why your AC may be blowing hot air can help you determine what to do next. If you need professional AC repair in Marshfield, contact House of Heating, Inc. now for help.
Assess Your Thermostat
One of the best places to start is your thermostat. Make sure that it is set to cool mode and that your temperature is below your current indoor temperature. You can try putting in fresh batteries if your low battery light is on, as a faulty connection could lead to problems. Additionally, make sure that your blower fan is set to Auto and not On.
Inspect Your Air Filter
Another necessary place to assess is your air filter. As your air filter traps pet hair, pollen, dust, and other airborne debris, it will clog up. This will restrict airflow, making it more difficult for your air conditioner to circulate its cold air throughout your home. Dirty filters lead to longer cooling cycles, reduced efficiency, and even frozen evaporator coils.
You can easily check your filter by pulling it out of its housing and holding it up to a light source. If you can’t see through the filter, you need to replace it with a new one. Ensure you’re checking your filter every month and replacing it whenever necessary.
Check the Airflow at Your Outdoor Unit
An essential component of your air conditioning system is your outdoor condenser unit. This unit is responsible for releasing heat from inside your home to the outdoors. If the space around your condenser unit has debris, it could restrict airflow and prevent heat release.
Check your condenser unit for grass clippings, leaves, or other items that are blocking its airflow. Be sure to trim back any shrubbery or plants that could be restricting airflow. Ideally, you need around two feet of space surrounding your entire condenser unit for it to operate efficiently.
Low Refrigerant Could Be the Problem
Another potential culprit of your hot air issue could be a low refrigerant level in your system. Refrigerant physically absorbs heat from inside your home. Over time, your refrigerant lines and coils can develop holes and leaks, allowing your refrigerant gas to escape.
When this happens, your system’s ability to remove heat severely diminishes. You may notice that your system is not only blowing warm air but is also running continuously and may develop ice on its coils. You’ll need a professional HVAC technician to recharge your refrigerant level. Routine AC maintenance is the best way to catch low refrigerant before it becomes a major cooling system issue.
Dirty Coils May Be the Culprit
Another potential source of your hot air issue could be dirty coils. Your system has both an indoor evaporator coil and an outdoor condenser coil. Inside these coils is refrigerant that’s responsible for absorbing and releasing heat. When the surface of your coils has dirt and grime on it, it can reduce the transfer of heat.
This can significantly minimize your system’s ability to extract heat from the air and properly cool your home. Getting routine AC maintenance will ensure that your coils stay clean so that your system can operate efficiently throughout the summer season.
When AC Replacement May Be the Better Option
Not every cooling system problem can benefit from repair service. If your existing system is over 12 years old and repairs are frequent, replacement may be the better choice. If you notice your air conditioner is struggling to keep your home comfortable when it’s running or rising energy bills, you need an upgrade.
Newer air conditioning systems offer better energy efficiency and indoor comfort. They provide better humidity control, quieter operation, and more precise indoor temperatures. If your system has a major component failure, like a compressor, it’s typically more cost-effective to invest in a new unit.
Schedule AC Repair Today
One of the most frustrating problems you can deal with is your air conditioner blowing hot air. If checking your air filter and condenser unit doesn’t solve the problem, get professional assistance.
Contact House of Heating, Inc. now to get professional air conditioning repair in Marshfield, WI.
