With summer highs of 84 degrees, good AC is an Edison must-have. When your air conditioner is running but not blowing cold air, it’s time to call a pro who can solve the problem quickly. We’ll explore some common reasons why your central AC is not blowing cold air, troubleshooting tips to get back on track, and the importance of regular AC maintenance. We’ll also take a look at more serious issues that mean it’s time to call for professional Edison AC repair.
Common Reasons Your AC Stopped Blowing Cold Air
These AC issues are some of the most common reasons why your system might not be blowing cold air.
Low refrigerant
Refrigerant cools the air as it moves through your system. Normally, the amount of refrigerant inside your AC stays consistent. However, if there is a leak somewhere in the system, refrigerant levels can decrease..
If you suspect that low refrigerant could be the cause of your AC malfunctioning, it’s important to call a pro for repairs promptly. Refrigerant is dangerous to your health and should only be handled by a qualified HVAC technician.
Thermostat problems
It may seem like a simple issue, but a faulty thermostat can easily disrupt your AC. If your thermostat is wrongly calibrated, broken, or out of batteries, these can all signal your AC to blow warm air.
It’s also a good idea to check the placement of your thermostat. If it’s located in a sunbeam or directly in front of a fan or vent, it can detect a temperature that’s different from the rest of your home, causing the AC to deliver the wrong temperature.
Dirty air filters
Dirty filters force your AC to work harder to blow air, which can cause the system to overheat and short cycle. This may make it blow warm air or trip a safety switch that turns off your AC. Energy Star recommends changing your AC filters every three months, or as recommended by the manufacturer. This helps your AC run smoothly and keeps your indoor air cleaner.
Broken compressor
The compressor pressurizes and moves refrigerant through the system. Compressors may break for a variety of reasons, including mechanical, electrical issues, and wear and tear. Your HVAC tech can repair or replace the compressor and identify any underlying issues that may have led to the problem.
Not sure where to start with AC parts? Our HVAC terminology guide can help you get familiar with the ins and outs of your cooling system.
Troubleshooting Central AC Not Blowing Cold Air
The following troubleshooting tips can help you reset your system when your AC is not blowing cold air.
Step 1: Check the thermostat
Start by checking to make sure your thermostat has power, is set to the right temperature, and isn’t located in front of a window, vent, or fan.
Step 2: Check the circuit breaker
Sometimes, a power outage may trip the circuit breaker, leading to some or part of your AC being turned off. While this usually means that your AC won’t turn on at all, it’s still worth checking. You can also take a look at the AC unit itself to confirm that it’s on once you’ve reset the breaker.
Step 3: Change the air filters
Check that your air filters are clean and up to date. If they’re getting close to the three-month mark, swap them out for fresh filters.
Step 4: Check around the vents and the outdoor unit
Walk around your air vents and make sure there are no obstructions, including furniture or rugs placed in front of or over the vents. Next, inspect the outdoor unit to make sure there’s nothing in the way of airflow. Sometimes, outdoor debris, dirt, leaves, and grass clippings can get stuck in the outdoor unit intake, which can impact AC function.
Step 5: Call a pro
If you’ve done an inspection of all the external components and the air filters, it’s time to call a pro. As a general rule, if you have to unscrew anything to access a part, it’s best left to an HVAC technician. Problems like refrigerant issues, compressor breakdowns, and other mechanical and electrical issues require expert tools and knowledge to avoid costly repairs and make sure everything gets done safely.
Regular AC Maintenance to Prevent AC Issues
Professional air conditioner maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs. It’s a good idea to get your AC inspected at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the heavy use season begins. Maintaining your HVAC during the seasonal change can also help smooth this transition.
Your HVAC technician can inspect your air conditioner unit and vents, clean your system, and catch any potential issues that could cause a breakdown or safety hazard. Staying up to date with your maintenance keeps your AC running well, saves on costs associated with emergency repairs, and helps keep your home safe. For even more peace of mind, try Sam’s HVAC maintenance club for bi-annual check-ups.
When to Call a Professional for AC Repairs
If your AC isn’t blowing cold air, it’s usually a good idea to turn it off to prevent any breakdowns or safety risks. The next step is to call a pro and avoid the risks associated with DIY heating and cooling repairs. Call Sam’s Air Control if you notice these common AC repair signs.
Your AC is leaking
When your AC has a leak, it’s usually one of two things: water or refrigerant. While a water leak isn’t dangerous, it does signal a problem with your AC that can lead to a breakdown or costly repairs.
Refrigerant is toxic when inhaled and dangerous to touch, and a leak requires immediate professional attention. If you see any liquids pooling on or around your AC, it’s safer to call a pro to investigate.
You hear unusual noises
Most air conditioners normally make a low, steady sound when they run, but any new or loud noises can signal a potential breakdown. Common causes include a slipped belt or other component out of place, which can cause a fire hazard or other costly repair. If you hear any unexpected sounds, it’s best to turn off your AC and call a professional.
Bad smell coming from your AC unit
When it’s working properly, your AC shouldn’t produce any kind of smell. An AC problem can cause a variety of odors, including:
- Burning: This can indicate a fire risk from an electrical or mechanical problem.
- Musty: This may mean that mold or mildew in your vents.
- Sweet or chemical: These scents indicate a refrigerant leak.
Call Sam’s for AC Solutions in Edison, NJ
Stay cool all summer long with reliable air conditioner maintenance from Sam’s Air Control. If your AC stopped blowing cold air, our pros can diagnose the issue and get it repaired quickly and affordably. Our HVAC technicians have experience with a range of systems, including air conditioners, mini-splits, and heat pumps, to provide you with expert solutions every time. Contact us today to book your next appointment and get your AC up and running like new.
