5 Reasons Why Your AC Blowing Out Warm Air
During the hot summer months, warm air is never what you’re hoping to feel come out of your AC. It’s a common HVAC issue, and it doesn’t mean the AC has completely broken, but it’s still unpleasant. Refrigerant coils keep the air cool as it passes through them, and when the cooling cycle process is disrupted, it can prevent any cold air.
Your AC blowing out warm air might seem like a nightmare, but there’s something you can do about it. As soon as you notice the warm air, you should try to remedy the problem, but it’s hard to know exactly how to pinpoint what the issue is.
Continue reading to learn the most common causes of an AC blowing hot air and find out when it’s time to call in backup for AC repair.
1. Thermostat Malfunction
First, check to ensure that you’ve set the HVAC system to cool instead of heat, and make sure that the fan is on. It’s not uncommon for technicians to ask you to check these things before making a house call.
It’s also possible that the thermostat needs more batteries or is malfunctioning. In case of a thermostat malfunction, contact a technician as thermostats are tricky to fix.
See if your thermostat is malfunctioning by comparing the temperature on a thermometer in a given room to the temperature you’ve set the thermostat to. This process is called calibration and professionals will do it to test that your thermostat is working properly.
2. The Coil is Frozen
A coil will freeze whenever it cannot gain access to heat. Most of the time, it can’t get airflow because the filters are dirty or there is a blockage in the vents or ducts. Sometimes this can happen when a household item is blocking a vent.
There could be damage to the ductwork. Due to wear and tear, ducts may collapse or form leaks. You will need to replace damaged ducts to restore airflow. If you have access to your ducts, you can investigate damages. However, if you are in an apartment building or shared living space it might be best to call someone in to investigate and conduct AC repair.
Refrigerant levels can also cause a frozen evaporator coil which we will expand upon next.
3. Refrigerant
Having the correct refrigerant levels is the key to keeping the coils from freezing up. The refrigerant compresses and expands to complete a cooling cycle.
If the refrigerant levels are low, it cannot fully expand; therefore, it cannot create enough cool air. If you notice that the vents are blowing warm air, turn off the AC immediately because the coil will only continue to get warmer as the fan blows.
If the refrigerant levels are too low, it most likely means the refrigerant lines are leaking.
Refrigerant levels will never change unless there’s a leak. We recommend calling a professional to fix the leak and refill the refrigerant to the proper level. This process should be a standard part of any AC repair.
When all the proper levels restore, the AC should cease to blow out warm air.
4. Any Issue With the Condenser
An AC Condenser/ Compressor should compress the refrigerant and completely cool the coils fully.
When the Compressor is unable to complete a full compression, it will also be unable to complete a full expansion. The cooling coils will not be able to remain cold and will become warmer and warmer as the AC runs. The warm coils cause hot air to blow out of the vents.
Most compressors are not easy to fix, and replacing them will be cheaper the repair them. Our technicians do not recommend trying to repair a damaged one.
Once the condenser does its job properly, the cool air should begin to blow again.
The outdoor AC unit experiences harsh weather, dirt, and grime. If not kept clean, the elements can invade the box, clog filters, and more.
Condenser issues are often difficult to identify and repair. If you need assistance in maintenance and repair, connect with the experts at Daffan.
5. The AC is Old
Like anything else, an AC has a lifespan, and eventually, even the best AC unit will give out. Most AC units will function for about 15 to 20 years, depending on how well they are cared for. Yearly routine maintenance before the summer will keep your AC in its best shape.
However, if you’ve tried all AC repairs and your unit just won’t blow cool air, it’s time to consider a replacement. The professionals at Daffan will be able to recommend the best AC unit and help with installation.
Cool Off by Calling Daffan
Right now is the best time to schedule your routine maintenance with Daffan before the next summer begins. Avoiding HVAC issues instead of fixing them is always the cheapest and safest way.
Make sure routine maintenance includes checking the following to keep your AC from blowing hot air:
- Thermostat
- Drain line and drain pan
- Fuse box
- Refrigerant
- Condenser
- AC coil
Take action as soon as you realize that your AC is blowing warm air. The HVAC technicians at Daffan are available to assist you with your HVAC needs and can provide you with expertise, skill, and understanding for AC repair. Contact us today here to keep that hot air out of the house.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
