When your air conditioner is running but not cooling, it can be frustrating—especially during those hot summer days when you need cool air the most. At Vese Heating & Cooling, we understand how important it is to keep your home comfortable, and that’s why we’re here to help you troubleshoot common AC issues and get your system back on track.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common reasons why your AC may be running but not cooling and offer simple tips to fix the problem. Plus, if your system needs professional attention, we’ll let you know when it’s time to call in the experts at Vese Heating & Cooling.
Thermostat Issues: Start With the Basics
Before you panic, the first thing to check is your thermostat. Is it set to “Cool”? Sometimes the simplest fixes can solve the biggest problems.
What To Do:
Set your thermostat to “Cool” mode and lower the temperature.
Make sure the fan is set to “Auto,” not “On.” When set to “On,” the fan may run even when the AC isn’t cooling.
If the problem persists, your thermostat may need recalibration, or there could be a wiring issue. In that case, it’s time to call a professional.
Dirty Air Filter Blocks Airflow
A clogged or dirty air filter can severely limit your AC’s ability to cool your home. It blocks airflow, causing your system to work harder than it should, and can even lead to bigger issues down the road.
What To Do:
Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. It’s a good idea to replace filters every 1 to 3 months, especially during peak seasons.
Regular filter changes not only keep your home cool but also improve your indoor air quality.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
If your AC is running but not cooling, frozen evaporator coils might be the culprit. This can happen when there’s not enough airflow across the coils, usually due to dirty air filters or low refrigerant levels.
What To Do:
Turn off your AC and let the coils thaw out. This may take a few hours.
Check your air filter to ensure it’s clean and replace it if necessary.
If your coils freeze frequently, it could indicate a refrigerant leak, which requires professional repair.
Refrigerant Leak
A refrigerant leak is one of the more serious issues that can cause your AC to run without cooling your home. Refrigerant is essential for cooling because it absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outside.
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak:
Warm air blowing from your vents
Ice buildup on refrigerant lines
Hissing or bubbling sounds
Higher energy bills
What To Do:
Refrigerant issues require a licensed HVAC technician to diagnose and repair. If you are located in Edmonton then contact Vese Heating & Cooling for a professional assessment.
Blocked or Dirty Condenser Unit Will Affect Cooling Capacity Of A/C
Your condenser unit, located outside, is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from your home. If it’s blocked by debris, leaves, or dirt, it can’t do its job properly, leading to your AC running but not cooling.
What To Do:
Inspect the area around your outdoor unit and clear any debris.
Hose down the condenser coils carefully to remove dirt and grime.
If the unit is severely dirty or damaged, it may need a professional cleaning or repair.
Ductwork Leaks And Losing Cool Air
If your AC is running but not cooling your home evenly, there could be leaks in your ductwork. When ducts aren’t properly sealed, cool air escapes before it reaches the rooms in your home.
What To Do:
Check for obvious signs of air leaks, such as hot spots in certain rooms.
Sealing duct leaks typically requires professional help to inspect your ducts and provide a solution to improve your home’s cooling efficiency.
Old AC Unit Possibly Time for an Upgrade?
If your air conditioner is more than 15 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Older systems lose efficiency over time and struggle to keep up with modern cooling demands.
What To Do:
If your system requires frequent repairs or is struggling to cool your home, it’s probably time to upgrade to a new energy-efficient unit.
At Vese Heating & Cooling, we specialize in installing high-efficiency air conditioning systems in Edmonton that not only cool your home better but also save you money on your energy bills.
Incorrect AC Size Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Sometimes the issue isn’t with your AC’s performance but with its size. If your air conditioner is too small or too large for your home, it won’t cool your home efficiently.
What To Do:
A professional HVAC technician can assess whether your system is properly sized for your home.
If your AC is the wrong size, replacing it with a correctly sized unit can significantly improve your cooling performance.
Contact Vese Heating & Cooling Today for Air Conditioner Repair In Edmonton
Don’t let a malfunctioning AC ruin your summer comfort. Call Vese Heating & Cooling today at (825)343-6222 to schedule a professional service or to learn more about our energy-efficient air conditioning systems.
We’re here to keep your home cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient!
FAQs: Common AC Issues
- Should I turn off my AC if it’s not cooling?
Yes, it’s a good idea to turn off your AC to prevent further damage. Follow the troubleshooting steps in this guide or contact us for professional assistance.
- How often should I replace my air filter?
You should replace your air filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and the presence of pets or allergies.
- Can I clean my outdoor AC unit myself?
Yes, you can clean the area around your outdoor unit and rinse the condenser coils gently. However, for deep cleaning, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
- How can I tell if my AC is low on refrigerant?
Signs of low refrigerant include warm air blowing from the vents, ice on the refrigerant lines, and unusually high energy bills. A professional HVAC technician can check and refill your refrigerant.
