When summer temperatures soar, you want a functioning air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. It can be frustrating when your system appears to be running, but your interior remains uncomfortably warm. This issue can stem from a range of causes.
While many are simple fixes, others will need the assistance of qualified HVAC technicians. Here are the most common causes of this issue and what you need to do when they happen.
The Thermostat Might Be to Blame
Sometimes, the problem is not with the air conditioner itself. It could be the thermostat. Someone might have accidentally switched it to “fan” instead of “cool,” or the temperature setting has not been adjusted to reflect the rising heat outside. Even a dead battery in a non-wired thermostat can be the culprit. Always make sure the thermostat is correctly switched to “cool.” The temperature should also be set several degrees lower than the current room temperature.
A Dirty Air Filter Could Be Choking Your System
One of the most common reasons an air conditioner stops cooling is also one of the easiest to overlook. You might have a dirty air filter. When your filter is clogged with dust and debris, airflow becomes restricted. This means less cool air can circulate through your home. In turn, your system has to work harder to try to keep up. Sometimes, a blocked filter can even cause the system’s evaporator coil to freeze. When that happens, the system completely stops cooling the air.
If it’s been a while since you have checked your air filter, take a moment to look at it. If it is coated in dust, you need to replace it. A fresh filter helps your system breathe easier and cool your home.
Your Outdoor Unit Might Be Covered in Debris
You may want to step outside and take a look at the outdoor part of your AC system. The condenser releases the heat your system pulls from inside your home. However, when surrounded by overgrown grass, leaves, or dirt, this component cannot do its job properly. As a result, your system keeps running but fails to cool your home.
Refrigerant Issues Could Be the Root Cause
If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant or if there is a leak, your AC will not be able to cool properly. Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home and carrying it outdoors. Without enough of it, the system cannot keep up.
Signs of a refrigerant problem include:
- A noticeable drop in cooling power
- Ice forming on the coils
- A hissing sound coming from the lines
Unfortunately, refrigerant levels cannot be checked or refilled by you. If you suspect this might be the issue, you will want to call in a licensed HVAC technician. They can test for leaks, make repairs, and recharge the system according to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.
Your Evaporator Coil Might Be Frozen
Here’s another situation that might be hidden from view but can have a serious impact: a frozen evaporator coil. When airflow through the system is restricted, the coil can get too cold and freeze over. A frozen coil cannot absorb heat from the air. Even though your system keeps running, no cool air comes out.
If your vents blow warm air and your system seems to struggle, turn it off for a few hours. You need to let the coil thaw. During that time, check for possible airflow restrictions. If the issue returns, an underlying cause may require a professional diagnosis.
The Problem Might Be Hidden in the Ductwork
Even if the AC is running fine, problems in your duct system can prevent cool air from reaching your living space. Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can allow conditioned air to escape into unused areas, such as the attic or crawlspace. As a result, your system runs continuously without cooling your home.
This is common in older homes where ducts are not sealed properly or have deteriorated over time. If you’ve noticed uneven cooling throughout the house, ductwork could be the reason. A professional duct inspection and sealing service can make a big difference in overall performance.
An Aging System Might Be Losing Its Edge
Air conditioners do not last forever. If your system is over 10 or 15 years old, it may lose efficiency due to age and wear. Older systems may still run but often cannot keep up with demand, especially during extreme heat. Also, if your AC unit was undersized when it was installed, it might never have been capable of cooling your home properly in the first place.
If your system runs non-stop but never quite cools your home, and if your utility bills are climbing higher every summer, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
Electrical or Control Problems Could Be Interfering
Modern AC systems rely on a network of control boards, sensors, and electrical connections to function. If something goes wrong with the wiring or a circuit board malfunctions, the system may turn on the fan but fail to activate the compressor. That is the component that cools the air.
This can be a difficult issue to spot without professional tools. If everything looks fine on the surface but your system still will not cool properly, it could be something behind the scenes in the electrical components. An experienced HVAC technician can run diagnostics to pinpoint the problem.
Don’t Forget the Vents
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the right one. If vents are closed or blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs, your system’s air cannot circulate through your home. This can make it seem like your AC isn’t working. However, in reality, it is just struggling to reach you. Take a walk through your home and check that all vents are fully open and free from obstructions.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve checked the thermostat, replaced the filter, cleared the outdoor unit, and nothing seems to help, you need to call a licensed HVAC professional. Issues like refrigerant leaks, frozen coils, or electrical problems should be left to experts with the tools and training to diagnose and fix them.
If there is an issue, you don’t want to wait. Addressing these problems early not only improves your comfort but can also extend the life of your system and lower your energy costs.
An air conditioner that runs without cooling is more than inconvenient. This is a sign that something’s wrong. Whether a clogged filter, a refrigerant issue, or an aging system on its last leg, identifying the cause helps you restore your home’s comfort.
Contact Us Today
If you are looking for a reliable HVAC company to find the problem with your air conditioner in Shawnee, KS, reach out to the team at Air Care Heating & Cooling. We have over 40 years of experience in the heating and cooling business. Over those years, we have won the Member of the Chamber of Shawnee award and received certification from the EPA and National Comfort Institute (NCI). Whether you need a AC repair, installation, or maintenance service, we are here to keep your home cool and comfortable. Reach out today to schedule your consultation.
