Have you ever experienced a frustrating situation where you get up to lower the temperature on your air conditioning unit only to discover that your AC isn’t really pushing out cool air? This can be extremely frustrating – not to mention inconvenient. Remember, the period from June to August in Ohio is characterized by the peak of heat and humidity, marking it as the hottest and wettest season. So, if you are currently dealing with a malfunctioning air conditioner, it may in fact cause you to feel as if you are melting.
Jokes aside, we understand that having your air conditioner run smoothly during the peak heat season is not just a matter of comfort – it’s about safety, too! Your air conditioner ensures proper ventilation and air circulation throughout your home, contributing to your home’s indoor air quality.
What causes your AC to blow hot air, you may ask? Naturally, you want to get to the bottom of this, so please join your Bexley Heating & Cooling family as we delve into some common culprits and provide handy tips for troubleshooting them.
Let’s Begin Troubleshooting:
GLANCE OVER the Thermostat:
First things first, let’s take a look at your HVAC system’s nerve center – the thermostat. If something’s off with your thermostat, it disrupts the communication with your HVAC system, which can result in the AC blowing hot air. Review your thermostat to see if it’s on and responsive. Then make sure that it’s not set to “heat” or “on” permanently, which actually just keeps the fan running continuously.
Inspect the Breaker:
Is your AC unit powered on? If not, the breaker switch may have tripped. Even if your AC is blowing warm air, it doesn’t hurt to check the circuit breaker, which is usually located in less frequent areas of your home, like the garage or basement. If the switch is off, turn it on and keep an eye on it. If it keeps tripping, it’s better to call a licensed expert to diagnose the potential underlying issue.
Examine the Air Filters:
Air filters clogged with dust and airborne contaminants may restrict airflow and potentially damage components like the motor, fan, or compressor. Check your filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months, to ensure they’re doing their job correctly. So, in the event you still have not figured out what’s going on with your AC, try checking and changing your air filters first.
Clean the Evaporator Coils:
In connection with the air filters, if they get clogged, dust or debris can build up on the evaporator coil, hindering heat absorption and, thus, the cooling process. Try carefully inspecting the coils, and if you find that they need a cleaning, click here to learn how.
Look for a Refrigerant Leak:
Just as your car’s AC needs coolant to work, so does your home AC. If you notice bubbling or hissing sounds when the AC is off, no cool air from the vents, or ice on the evaporator coils, you might have a refrigerant leak on your hands. This is a task best left to professionals since legally acquiring AC refrigerant requires HVAC certification. Plus, it’s highly imperative to do this with proper equipment for safety reasons.
Check the Condenser (Outside Unit):
Lastly, let’s inspect the condenser. If its coils are dirty, they won’t be able to extract warm air from your home effectively, reducing the flow of cool air and potentially damaging the condenser unit. If their cleanliness is found wanting, don your gloves, and gently rinse off the debris with a hose set on a calm mode like “shower” or “flat.”
If you’ve followed all these steps and your AC is still giving you grief, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. That’s where we come in! We’ve got NATE-certified technicians and offer services 24/7, 365 days a year. We’d love to serve you!
Rely on your Bexley Heating & Cooling family to keep your AC in top shape for Ohio’s heat. Call us today at (614) 924-7856, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!