There’s nothing more frustrating on a hot day than an air conditioner that hums along without actually cooling your home. You can hear it running, feel the air coming from the vents, but the room still feels warm and uncomfortable. When your AC fails to cool properly, it not only affects comfort but can also increase energy usage and lead to further mechanical issues if left unchecked.
This issue is prevalent during the hottest months, when AC units work hardest. Understanding the potential causes can help you take the proper steps toward a solution. Some problems are simple and can be fixed easily, while others require professional diagnosis. Either way, a cooling issue that persists is a sign your system needs attention before it becomes a more expensive repair.
At Infinity Heating And Cooling, we help homeowners enjoy year-round comfort by providing expertly designed outdoor living spaces that support proper ventilation and home energy efficiency.
1. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
One of the first things to check is your thermostat. Make sure it is set to “cool” and not just “on.” If the fan is running but the compressor is not engaged, your system may circulate air without cooling it. Also, check that the temperature setting is lower than the current room temperature.
2. Dirty Or Clogged Air Filter
A dirty filter blocks airflow, making it harder for cool air to circulate. When airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil may freeze, which further limits cooling. Replacing or cleaning the filter every one to three months can prevent this issue and keep your system working correctly.
3. Blocked Or Closed Vents
Furniture, curtains, or other objects may block air vents, reducing the flow of cool air into the room. Check that supply and return vents are open and unobstructed to allow balanced air circulation throughout your space.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coil
If your system blows warm air or very weak airflow, the evaporator coil may have frozen. This can happen due to low refrigerant, restricted airflow, or mechanical failure. Ice buildup prevents the coil from absorbing heat, which keeps the space from cooling.
5. Refrigerant Leak Or Low Levels
Refrigerant plays a key role in absorbing heat from inside your home. If refrigerant levels are low, the system cannot cool efficiently. Leaks can occur due to worn connections or punctured lines and should be handled by a certified technician. Recharging the system without fixing the leak will not solve the problem.
6. Dirty Or Damaged Condenser Coils
The outdoor unit’s condenser coil releases the heat collected from your indoor air. When the coil is covered in dirt or debris, it cannot release heat properly, leading to poor cooling performance. Cleaning the coil or removing obstructions around the outdoor unit can restore efficiency.
7. Faulty Capacitor Or Compressor
The compressor is the heart of the AC system. If it fails, the system may still run, but without cooling. Faulty capacitors can also affect the compressor or fan motor performance. These parts need inspection and repair by a licensed HVAC technician.
8. Electrical Or Control Board Issues
Sometimes, electrical problems or malfunctions in the system’s control board prevent the AC from cycling properly. If the compressor does not turn on or if there are irregular cycles, internal electronics may be at fault.
9. Undersized Or Aging System
An AC system that is too small for your home or nearing the end of its life may struggle to keep up with cooling demands. An undersized system will run continuously without ever reaching the target temperature. Over time, performance decreases as parts wear out.
10. Improper Insulation Or Heat Load
If your home has poor insulation, air leaks, or excessive sunlight entering through windows, the AC must work harder to maintain indoor temperatures. Addressing insulation and sealing gaps can help reduce the cooling load on your system and improve performance.
Create Energy-Efficient Comfort for Every Space
At Infinity Heating And Cooling, we understand how outdoor conditions affect indoor comfort. For more information on our AC repair services, call Infinity Heating And Cooling at (702) 291-2000 or contact us via this Online Form, and one of our representatives will get back to you shortly.
