Air conditioner blowing warm air?
Nothing is worse than dealing with a problem that you just can’t wrap your head around. For example, an air conditioner blowing warm air when it is supposed to be blowing cool air. Chances are you’re turning on your AC system because it is hot outside, making the warm air blowing onto your face both annoying and untimely. The problem likely boils down to one of the following occurrences:
Thermostat set to heat
It seems obvious, but sometimes a homeowner forgets to change the thermostat setting from “heat” to “cool” at the start of a warm spring or hot summer. Either it’s overlooked or someone may have accidentally changed the setting from bumping into the wall. It’s a simple fix; make sure your thermostat is set to the desired setting.
Another consideration regarding thermostats are the “on” and “auto” modes. It is important to realize that the fan constantly blows when the thermostat is “on”, even when the air conditioner is not actually running. “Auto” will activate the fan only while the AC is running.
Point being, you do risk your air conditioner blowing warm air if the fan is on, while the air conditioner is off.
Dirty air filter
A dirty air filter is a common inconvenience; however, it’s a simple fix as well. If an air filter has lived beyond it productivity then debris will build up. This disrupts air flow, making it tougher for cool air to reach the living space. To determine whether or not your filter is worthy of the job, turn off the air conditioning system, take out the filter, and hold it up to the light. If hardly any light gets through, it’s time to replace the filter.
A helpful habit to get into is cleaning or replacing the air filter every 2-3 months. There is some flexibility with the replacement timeframe, but if you want to maximize the output of your AC system, 2-3 months is recommended.
Obstructed or frozen evaporator/condenser coils
Now, for the more intricate causes of an air conditioner blowing warm air. The evaporator coils partner with the air filter to keep cool air blowing. Therefore, poor air filtration will result in poorly performing evaporator coils. If the air filter allows dust and debris to build up in the evaporator coils, the disrupted air flow can actually cause the coils to freeze altogether, allowing no air flow whatsoever to the home. Just another reason to routinely clean or replace AC air filters.
Condenser coils, on the other hand, exist on the outside AC unit. Thus, they are subject to outdoor occurrences. Twigs or leaves can get stuck in the coils, or freezing temperatures can even freeze the coils. Again, this negatively effects air flow.
Low refrigerant
Whether its your car or your home, low refrigerant is a likely cause to either air conditioner blowing warm air. Of course, an air conditioner that is low on refrigerant needs more refrigerant. Though, low refrigerant is also a sign of a leak throughout the system. You will need to have an AC technician come to your home to check your air conditioning system. The technician will have to locate and fix the leak. Afterwards, he or she will refill the unit with freon/refrigerant. DO NOT try to deal with refrigerant on your own as it can be dangerous.
Circuit breaker
There is the possibility that the AC system does not have power. The issue could be caused by a tripped breaker or a blown fuse. If the unit has been overworked, for example, the circuit to the system may automatically shut off. If so, you will need to flip the switch back on.
A blown fuse, however, will require the help of an electrician. The AC technician will advice you of the problem and let you know whether or not an electrician will be needed. Ultimately, your internal system may still have power, enabling the air conditioner to continue to run. But, no power to the outside unit will of course stop it from turning on, resulting in warm air.
If your air conditioner is inexplicably blowing warm air, Area Wide Services can help. We’ll send an expert technician out to your home and we’ll get your AC unit ready to take on the summer heat. Contact Area Wide Services today! Also, please visit our blog for additional helpful HVAC information.