As the days heat up, the last thing you need is your AC blowing warm air instead of the refreshing cool air you count on. Your home should be comfortable — not as hot inside as it is outside. Yet HVAC systems have a habit of malfunctioning right when you need them most. Here are 10 common reasons why your air conditioner might be blowing warm air and what can be done to fix the problem.
1. Dirty and Clogged Filters
Over time, as your air conditioner circulates air through the return vent filters, dirt, pollen, dust, and even pet hair can collect and eventually create a blockage. This leads to a decrease in airflow that hurts efficiency by making your HVAC system work harder.
To avoid this issue, consider changing your filters roughly once every three months. If you’re worried about forgetting this simple but important maintenance tip, put a reminder in your phone or calendar app. Believe us, staying on top of filter replacements can do a lot to improve your air quality.
2. A Problem with the Thermostat
The air conditioning’s thermostat detects the indoor air temperature and allows you to adjust it according to your preference. Sometimes, thermostats stop working correctly, leading to your air conditioning not coming on when needed. The thermostat might need to be reset, new batteries, or a full replacement.
That’s where the team at Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. can really be helpful. Our regular maintenance can help detect and correct any issues early. Perhaps you may even need a thermostat upgrade from an old, outdated model to a newer and more efficient option.
3. Low Levels of Refrigerant
Air conditioner units like yours use refrigerant, a chemical that helps cool the inside air. If the level of refrigerant is low, your air conditioner will not be able to cool the air as efficiently, leaving you with a less comfortable living space. One possible reason for low refrigerant is a leak, which should be checked and fixed by an AC repair professional as soon as possible. Having your AC refrigerant levels checked regularly can help you avoid surprises down the line.
4. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
The condensate drain helps your air conditioner get rid of built-up humidity inside your home. When this drain becomes dirty or blocked by accumulated dirt or ice, the condensation from the excess moisture will back up into the HVAC system instead of draining out of the home.
If this happens, your air conditioner may work less efficiently or even stop working altogether. To avoid this from happening, get your system checked regularly. A professional HVAC company can assist when you need to fix issues that have already developed.
5. Air Compressor is not Working
Your air conditioner’s compressor is what circulates refrigerant. If the compressor is not working well, your air conditioner cannot cool air efficiently. You’ll quickly notice that it is blowing warm air, making your home less comfortable. A compressor can stop working for a number of reasons, such as a faulty capacitor or if there is a clog in the system. A company specializing in air conditioning services can help you find the issue and determine what needs to be fixed or replaced.
6. Blocked or Dirty Condenser Coils
Condenser coils release the heat removed from your home, allowing the air conditioner to cool effectively. When the coils get dirty or blocked, they become less efficient, and your air conditioner may start to blow warmer air. Having your air conditioner checked and cleaned regularly can help you avoid this issue and keep your system running smoothly. That way, your home will definitely stay comfortably cool in the summer, hot summer after hot summer.
7. Frozen or Dirty Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing heat from your home’s air. Because these coils are typically moist from condensation, they can easily collect dust and debris, leading to reduced efficiency. Over time, this buildup can restrict airflow and cause the coils to freeze, especially if there’s also a low refrigerant level. Frozen or dirty coils prevent the system from cooling properly and may result in warm air blowing from your vents. Regular maintenance, including coil cleaning and refrigerant checks, can help prevent this issue and keep your AC running smoothly during the hottest months.
8. Faulty Air Conditioner Capacitor
The capacitor in your air conditioner helps start and run the unit’s compressor and fan motors. If the capacitor is failing or has completely failed, the system may struggle to start or not turn on at all. In some cases, the AC might still run but blow warm air due to the compressor not operating properly. A faulty capacitor can also put strain on other components, potentially leading to further damage. It’s important to have a professional HVAC technician inspect the unit to diagnose the issue and prevent costly repairs down the road.
9. Leaks in the Air Ducts
The ducts throughout your house or attic can be damaged and begin to leak air over time. This can make it hard for cooled air to get from your air conditioner to the rooms you are trying to cool.
Damage can be caused by a variety of things, including unwanted pests like squirrels or improper duct installation. It might even be that an electrical or roofing contractor accidentally poked holes into or ripped your home’s air ducts, leading to leaks. No matter what the reason is for the inefficient circulation of cool air, a professional HVAC contractor like Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. can inspect and fix any issues.
10. Lack of Proper and Regular Maintenance
One of the most common reasons for an air conditioner to malfunction or work less efficiently is a lack of regular maintenance. In addition to other maintenance, like changing filters and cleaning debris from the outdoor unit, we recommend that you have your AC tuned up by a pro each year.
Sometimes, people forget to change the filters, but a regularly scheduled maintenance service can help avoid those types of mishaps while detecting and correcting potential issues before they arise. You are busy, so why not plan your HVAC services and prevent unexpected and emergency repairs later? Our annual maintenance plans make it easy to keep up and save money.
Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. is a respected HVAC contractor with locations in Nashua, NH, and Canterbury, NH. We offer annual maintenance plans that will help you avoid unnecessary and costly repairs. Maintenance services include cleaning the condensate drain and condenser, checking the thermostat and filters, and checking other components like refrigerant operation, capacitors, and motor components.
Other services we offer include AC repairs and installations. Additionally, we offer highly efficient Wi-Fi thermostats and high-velocity HVAC systems. Don’t forget to ask about rebates and our HVAC financing options. It’s time to take control of all of your HVAC needs.
Whatever your needs are, contact Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. today for more information! You will not regret your decision.
