There’s nothing more frustrating than turning on your air conditioner only to find that it’s running but not cooling your home. If your AC is blowing warm air or struggling to maintain the right temperature, it could be due to several common issues.
At Apple AC & Heat Services, we know how important a properly functioning air conditioning system is—especially in the Texas heat. Below, we’ll cover the most common reasons why your AC might not be cooling and how to fix them so you can restore comfort to your home.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, making it harder for your AC to cool your home efficiently. When air can’t move freely through the system, it forces your unit to work harder while delivering less cool air.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty (typically every 1-3 months).
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency filter to improve indoor air quality.
- Set a reminder to check your filter regularly to prevent future issues.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with your AC itself but with the thermostat settings. If your thermostat is incorrectly set or malfunctioning, your system may not be cooling properly.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” mode and at the desired temperature.
- Check for low batteries and replace them if needed.
- Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for more precise temperature control.
Low Refrigerant Levels or a Leak
Refrigerant is the chemical that helps your AC remove heat from the air. If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak, it won’t be able to cool effectively.
🔹 Signs of Low Refrigerant:
- AC blows warm or lukewarm air.
- Ice buildup on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil.
- Hissing or bubbling sounds near the outdoor unit.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- A professional HVAC technician must locate and repair the leak.
- The system will need to be recharged with refrigerant to restore cooling performance.
Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils
Your AC’s outdoor unit (condenser) expels heat removed from inside your home. If the coils are covered in dirt, leaves, or debris, they can’t release heat efficiently, causing your system to struggle.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Turn off your AC and clear away debris around the outdoor unit.
- Use a hose or coil cleaner to gently clean the coils.
- Schedule annual maintenance to keep the condenser in top shape.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air inside your home. If it becomes frozen, airflow is restricted, and your AC can’t cool properly.
🔹 What Causes a Frozen Coil?
- Low refrigerant levels
- Dirty air filter blocking airflow
- Malfunctioning blower fan
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Turn off your AC and let the coil thaw completely.
- Check and replace the air filter if it’s clogged.
- If the coil keeps freezing, call a professional to inspect the refrigerant levels.
Leaky or Disconnected Ductwork
Cool air from your AC travels through ductwork before reaching your living spaces. If there are leaks, holes, or disconnected sections, much of the cool air could be escaping into the attic or walls instead of cooling your home.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Inspect your ducts for visible damage or gaps.
- Schedule professional duct sealing to prevent air loss.
- Consider duct cleaning if dust buildup is restricting airflow.
Faulty Compressor or Capacitor
Your AC’s compressor is the heart of the system, responsible for circulating refrigerant and removing heat. If the compressor fails or the capacitor burns out, your AC will run but won’t cool.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Listen for clicking or buzzing sounds from the outdoor unit, which may indicate a failing capacitor.
- If the compressor is damaged, a technician will determine whether repair or replacement is needed.
Oversized or Undersized AC Unit
If your AC is too large or too small for your home, it won’t cool efficiently. An oversized unit cools too quickly but doesn’t remove humidity, leaving your home feeling sticky. An undersized unit runs constantly but struggles to reach the set temperature.
🔹 How to Fix It:
- Have an HVAC professional assess your AC system size.
- If necessary, upgrade to a properly sized unit for your home’s cooling needs.
How to Prevent AC Cooling Issues in the Future
Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent these issues and keep your AC running at peak performance.
✔ Change air filters regularly
✔ Schedule annual HVAC tune-ups
✔ Keep outdoor unit clear of debris
✔ Check for refrigerant leaks and airflow restrictions
✔ Upgrade to a smart thermostat for better temperature control
Need Professional AC Repair? Apple AC & Heat Services Can Help!
If your AC is running but not cooling, don’t wait until the Texas heat makes your home unbearable. At Apple AC & Heat Services, our expert technicians can diagnose and repair any cooling issue to restore comfort to your home.
Call us today to schedule an AC inspection and get your system back to peak performance!
