What happens when your trusted air conditioner starts blowing warm air instead of a chilly breeze? In this article, we will explore the common reasons why your AC might be blowing warm air and the practical steps you can take to fix it. From troubleshooting your thermostat settings to understanding the intricacies of refrigerants and compressors, this post will cover it.

Check Your Thermostat

Before you freak out about a broken AC unit, check the thermostat. Sometimes, all it takes is a quick adjustment to fix the problem. Start by checking if your thermostat is set to “auto” instead of “fan” — this way, the AC will only blow cold air when it’s cooling the air. If the thermostat is correctly set to auto and the air is still warm, try changing the temperature to something significantly lower than your current room temperature. If this doesn't work either, it may indicate a bigger problem.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters are responsible for filtering the dirt, dust, and debris gathered from the outside air before it is cooled and circulated into your room. If the air filter becomes dirty or clogged, the AC must work harder to keep the room cool. This extra load can cause the unit to malfunction or stop working altogether. Check your AC’s air filter regularly and replace it at least every three months. This simple step could save you from an expensive repair.

Lack of Refrigerant

An AC unit requires refrigerant (also known as Freon) for it to blow cold air. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it outside, leaving cold air in the room. If your AC is blowing warm air, it may indicate that the unit is low on refrigerant and needs to be recharged. However, refrigerants are regulated heavily, and only a licensed HVAC professional should perform the recharge. Attempting to add refrigerant on your own can cause permanent damage to your AC unit.

Dirty Coils

Dirty evaporator and condenser coils can cause your AC to blow warm air. When the coils are dirty, they can affect the unit’s performance, making it difficult for it to cool the air. Clean the coils at least once a year to eliminate any built-up grime and dirt that can hamper your AC unit’s performance. You can clean the coils yourself or opt for a professional cleaning service.

Malfunctioning Compressor

The compressor is located in the outdoor unit of your AC and is responsible for compressing the refrigerant, making it easier to cool the air. If the compressor malfunctions, your AC will not be able to circulate cold air into the room. A broken compressor is a major issue that will require expert repair service. A technician will inspect the compressor and determine whether it can be repaired or whether it must be replaced.

An AC blowing warm air is a common problem during the summer months. However, most of the common causes are easily fixable. Don’t let a hot and sweaty room dampen your summer fun, check your thermostat, remember to replace the air filters regularly, call in a professional technician if the compressor or refrigerant needs to be checked — and most importantly, sit back and enjoy your cool, refreshing air.

Contact an AC repair professional today to learn more.