7 Reasons Why Your AC Is Running But Not Cooling

Keeping cool in the summer heat is always a top priority, but what happens when your AC is running yet not cooling your home as effectively as it should? It’s a frustrating and potentially concerning situation, especially during a Columbus heatwave. There are several potential explanations, ranging from simple fixes to more complex mechanical problems.

Explore the top seven reasons your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air and the steps to take to get your home back to a comfortable temperature.

1. Clogged Air Filter

A common reason your air conditioner may not be cooling is due to dirty filters. Over time, pollen, dust, pet dander, and other particles build up on your filter and obstruct airflow. Your system continues to run, but with significantly decreased cooling capability.

Scheduling annual AC maintenance and regularly changing or cleaning your filters helps take care of this problem. During peak cooling season, change your filter at least once every month. In times of lower use, a new filter every three months should do the trick. If your AC still struggles to cool after cleaning the filters, the issue may lie elsewhere. Ignoring filter maintenance restricts your AC’s cooling capabilities and can lead to bigger and more costly issues within the system.

2. Thermostat Settings Are Incorrect

Your thermostat is the control center of your AC. If it’s set incorrectly or malfunctioning, it may cause your air conditioner to run without actually cooling. An incorrect fan setting is one of the most common culprits. If it’s set to “on” instead of “auto” the fan will keep running without cooling your home. 

Start by double-checking your thermostat settings. If everything seems in order, but your AC still isn’t cooling, you might be dealing with a faulty thermostat. Fixing the thermostat may be as easy as replacing the batteries, or there may be a bigger issue that requires a complete replacement. If you have a smart thermostat, look for the built-in error codes and system health checks to help pinpoint the issue.

3. Refrigerant Leak or Low Levels

Refrigerant is the substance your air conditioner uses to remove heat from the air inside your house. If levels are low, your AC can’t effectively cool your home. Low levels are often due to a leak in the refrigerant lines, which is not always immediately apparent. The top signs that you may have a refrigerant leak include poor airflow, warm air coming from the vents, and ice forming on the evaporator coils. 

While it may offer a temporary fix, getting someone to simply refill the refrigerant isn’t a long-term solution. The leak will continue to cause levels to drop over time, resulting in recurring cooling issues that put your household at risk. Ongoing refrigerant exposure can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and other serious health concerns.

If you suspect falling refrigerant levels, call a professional to locate and repair the leaks, then recharge the refrigerant to the appropriate levels.

4. Frozen Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils are a key component that help your air conditioner absorb heat from the air. When coils freeze over, they can’t do their job correctly, leaving you with an air conditioner that runs without cooling. Ice buildup on the evaporator coils is often due to restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, or issues with the blower fan. 

If you notice ice forming on the evaporator coils, turn off your air conditioner to let them thaw. You can also set your system to the “fan” setting and allow it to run until the coils are no longer frozen. Once the ice is gone, assess your AC for dirty filters, improper thermostat settings, or visible damage.

If you’re having trouble identifying the cause of the issue, contact a professional for AC inspection and repair.

5. Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser unit of your AC, typically located outside, is responsible for releasing the collected heat from your house to the outdoors. However, if the coils get covered in dirt, dust, or debris, it limits their ability to expel heat, impacting your AC’s cooling abilities.

To keep your AC cooling effectively, regularly clean and check the condenser coils to prevent buildup from obstructing its function. Look for grass, leaves, or other debris that could be blocking airflow. If the coils appear dirty, gently rinse them with a hose. If clearing off the coils doesn’t help, there may be problems stemming from internal parts of the unit, like a failing fan motor, which require professional attention.

6. Incorrectly Sized AC Unit

A correctly sized air conditioner is key to keeping your home comfortable. An AC that’s too small for the space struggles to cool, running consistently without ever reaching the desired temperature. Similarly, an oversized air conditioner cycles on and off too frequently, impacting its ability to dehumidify the air and making the space feel less comfortable.

If you’ve ruled out other potential issues and your AC is still not cooling, it may be worth consulting with a professional to see if your AC is the right size for your home. Upgrading or downsizing to a more suitable unit could improve comfort, reduce energy waste, and extend the service life of your HVAC system.

7. Faulty Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your AC system, pressurizing the refrigerant to make the entire cooling process possible. If the compressor begins to fail, your air conditioner might still run but won’t keep your home cool. If you notice warm air blowing from the vents, strange noises coming from the unit, or constantly tripping circuit breakers, a faulty compressor is likely the cause.

If you suspect a compressor issue, you’ll need to seek professional help. Compressor problems are complex and require technical expertise to diagnose and fix. Depending on the severity of the situation, the compressor may even need a complete replacement.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?

Knowing the reason why your air conditioner isn’t cooling helps determine whether repair or replacement is necessary. While minor issues like a dirty filter or incorrect thermostat settings are a quick fix, others may require a complete replacement. 

If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, constantly in need of repair, or struggles to keep up with your cooling needs, replacement is likely the most effective solution. Upgrading to a new, high-efficiency air conditioner means fewer repairs and reduced energy usage, helping you save money in the long run. 

Call Dugan for AC Repair in Columbus

If your air conditioner is struggling to cool your Indiana home, call the experts at Dugan for professional AC repair. We’ll inspect your system to determine the cause of your cooling issues and offer the most effective solution. Whether your air conditioner requires repair or replacement, you can count on our team for 5-star service and lasting results. 

Call us or book online to schedule AC repair in Columbus and surrounding areas today! We also provide new construction installations, maintenance programs, emergency services, and more to help with all your HVAC needs.