Why Your Central AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air (And What To Do)
With summer just around the corner, it’s important to make sure your air conditioner is working properly. One of the most common problems people have in the summer is their central AC not blowing cold air.
There are a few simple things you can check before calling an HVAC technician. Below, we’ll explain some of the top reasons your AC may not be cooling your home—and when it's time to call a professional.
1. Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the most common problems. When filters get filled with dust and dirt, they block the flow of air. Cold air can’t move through your home properly. If the filter is too dirty, it can even cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which also blocks airflow.
Here’s what you can do:
- If your filter is disposable, replace it every 3 months (more often if someone in your home has allergies).
- If it’s washable, clean it regularly.
- Also check the outdoor condenser unit. Clear away any plants or debris—leave about 2 feet of space around it for proper airflow.
Important: Leave cleaning the inside coils to a professional. They’re easy to damage.
2. Thermostat Settings
Check your thermostat:
- Make sure it’s set to “cool” and not just “auto”.
- Make sure the temperature is set lower than the room temperature.
Sometimes, someone may change the settings without noticing.
3. Clogged Drain Line
Your AC doesn’t just cool the air—it also removes moisture. That water drains out through a small drain line. If this line gets clogged, the water backs up. Some systems have a safety switch that shuts off the unit to prevent damage.
You’ll need to:
- Clear the drain line (or have a pro do it)
- Reset the switch once it’s cleared
Regular AC maintenance can help prevent this problem from happening in the first place.
4. Electrical Problems
AC units use a lot of power and need their own dedicated outlet. If yours is sharing power with another device, it may not run correctly.
Check for:
- Frayed cords or damaged wires—don’t use the unit if you see damage
- A tripped circuit breaker—reset it and see if the AC works
Over time, internal wires or connections can become loose or worn. These problems should only be handled by a licensed HVAC technician.
5. Mechanical Issues
Your AC system has moving parts like motors, fans, and belts. These parts wear out over time, which can lower your system’s performance.
If the condenser fan motor or compressor is broken, the AC won’t cool the air properly. These are not DIY fixes. If you hear strange noises or feel warm air, call a professional to take a look.
6. Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is what makes your air cold. It lives inside the copper coils in your AC unit. Your system should never "use up" refrigerant, but leaks can happen.
Leaks can be caused by:
- Factory defects
- Vibrations or metal erosion
- Poor installation
If your system is low on refrigerant:
- It will work harder (causing high energy bills)
- It might damage the compressor (a costly repair)
Important: It’s illegal for someone without a license to handle refrigerant. Make sure you call a licensed HVAC technician who can fix the leak and refill the system safely.
7. Old AC Unit
Even with good care, AC units don’t last forever. Most central AC systems last about 15 years.
If your unit is older and keeps having problems, it may be time to think about replacing your AC. A licensed professional can inspect your system and let you know if repairs or replacement make more sense.
Give LA Heating and Air A Call Today
If your ac unit is giving you trouble and not cooling your home like it should, give us a call today at 818-341-3406 or contact us online. One of our experienced professional technicians can help you get your system back up and running properly. Do not wait until the hottest days of summer to give us a call. Before summer comes, run your AC system to check it is operating like it should. Give us a call to schedule routine ac maintenance as well, it can help you save money in the long run on costly repairs. We are here to help with any ac issues you may have so you can stay cool during the summer months. Learn more about other services we offer.
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