You rely on your air conditioner for cool air during the summer heat. Without a reliable cooling system, your home can quickly turn from a relaxing environment to a hot and humid one.
A clear sign that your system isn’t working is if your air conditioner is blowing warm air. If the unit is turning on but isn’t blowing at the temperature you need, there is likely a problem that needs to be repaired as soon as possible.
Below are a few reasons why your air conditioner may be blowing warm or hot air into your home.
1. Thermostat Setting
While it may seem obvious, it’s always best to check your thermostat’s settings first if your air conditioner is blowing warm air. Because a thermostat is generally located on a wall and is easily accessible, its settings may have been accidentally changed.
First, check to make sure your thermostat is on and set to “cool.” If it is set to “heat,” your air conditioner will blow warm air. Additionally, make sure your thermostat is set to your desired temperature. Again, the temperature setting can be easily tampered with, so ensuring it’s correct is one of the first steps in diagnosing AC issues.
Always be sure to double-check your thermostat settings before moving on in the AC troubleshooting process.
2. Restricted Airflow
When airflow is restricted throughout your colling system, the amount of cool air in your home is reduced. Additionally, restricted airflow may cause your air conditioner’s compressor to freeze up, eventually leading to unit malfunction.
There can be multiple reasons why your air conditioning system may be experiencing restricted airflow. These can include:
- Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: Filters trap dust and debris and, if not regularly cleaned or replaced, will become clogged.
- Dirty AC Coils: A frozen or dirty evaporator coil can restrict airflow.
- Blower Motor Problems: A weak or faulty blower motor can’t move air effectively.
- Compressor Problems: If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect refrigerant circulation and airflow.
- Lack of Air Conditioner Maintenance: Regular AC maintenance is vital for protecting your system and ensuring it lasts for many years to come.
Restricted airflow can make your home uncomfortable, so it’s important to call an HVAC professional to diagnose the problem as soon as possible.
3. Electrical Surge or Tripped Breaker
Another common cause of warm air from your AC is if the outdoor condensing unit isn’t connected to a reliable power source. If the incorrect amount of voltage flows to your air conditioner, it may cause a breaker to trip. When this occurs, you’ll notice that your AC system is blowing warm air.
To diagnose this issue, take a look at the circuit box in your home. If the breaker has tripped, flip it back on and see if your AC emits cold air again. If the breaker continues to trip, there is likely something else going on with the system, or the breaker simply can’t handle the amount of voltage the AC needs to run.
Additionally, electrical surges or outages due to storms can leave your home without power, meaning your air conditioning system will not be able to function properly.
4. Malfunctioning Compressor
The main function of the compressor in your air conditioner is to pressurize and cool the refrigerant. If the compressor malfunctions, your AC system will be unable to cool your home.
Your compressor may not be working properly for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Electrical Failures
- Overheating
- Refrigerant Leaks
- Dirty Condensor Coils
If there is a build-up of debris and dirt around your AC’s outdoor unit, this could also be a reason the compressor is not working. Many homeowners may overlook cutting back shrubs or grass to prevent this problem. If there is debris or other objects around your outdoor unit, clear these away as soon as possible.
Any problems with the AC compressor should be handled by a licensed HVAC professional.
5. Refrigerant Issues
Refrigerant is what facilitates the exchange of warm and cold air. If refrigerant levels are low or if there is a leak, your AC unit will not cool the air in your home properly. A refrigerant leak can also cause a gradual depletion of the refrigerant, causing your AC to blow warm air.
Since insufficient refrigerant levels can hinder the cooling process, it’s important to call an HVAC professional right away. Homeowners typically don’t have access to the correct type of refrigerant to recharge the system.
What to Do If Your AC Is Blowing Warm Air
If the air distributed throughout your home is not as cool as you think it should be, contact GAC Services. Our licensed heating and cooling technicians can diagnose and repair any AC issues and restore comfort to your home.
GAC Services is an HVAC contractor servicing Montgomery County and Frederick County, Maryland, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment with our team.
