When you return home from a nice day at the 9.5-acre Alamo Creek Park in Vacaville, CA, the last thing you want to deal with is an out-of-order air conditioner. If your AC is not cooling your home, but it’s still running, several causes could be behind this issue. Fortunately, the experienced team at Cozy Home Services has some helpful information on why this might occur, how to troubleshoot the problem, and steps you can take to prevent this common air conditioner issue from happening to you.
Common Causes of an AC Running but Not Cooling
If your AC is running but not cooling, it could be due to several underlying problems. Here are some of the most common causes of this frustrating issue.
Incorrect thermostat settings
If your thermostat isn’t set to “cool,” your AC won’t properly cool your home. When the thermostat temperature is set too high, it also affects AC performance. The air conditioner may turn on and run, but it won’t cool the air until the thermostat settings are correct.
Dirty air filters
A dirty air filter affects the airflow of your system, forcing it to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. When this happens, the AC can’t cool your home effectively. Dirty air filters also reduce energy efficiency and put excess strain on your air conditioner.
Refrigerant leaks
Most air conditioners require a certain level of refrigerant that runs through the lines to keep your home cool. However, if there’s a refrigerant leak, the AC can’t do its job. Sudden hissing noises, visible signs of leaks, or high summer electric bills could be a sign that you have a refrigerant leak that needs attention from an experienced HVAC professional.
Frozen evaporator coils
Low refrigerant, airflow issues, or blocked vents can cause the AC’s evaporator coils to freeze. When the coils thaw, they begin to leak, resulting in water damage. This common problem will cause your AC to stop cooling your home, even while it’s running.
Dirty condenser coils
The condenser coils are located in the outdoor unit, so they’re vulnerable to dirt and other debris. When these coils get dirty, it may cause the AC to stop cooling your home. You can clean the coils using a garden hose or call Cozy Home Services for a professional inspection and cleaning.
Faulty compressor
The compressor is like the engine of your air conditioner. It pumps and pressurizes the refrigerant through the system to cool your home. If this key component is damaged or malfunctioning, your AC may still run, but it won’t be able to cool your home effectively.
Incorrect AC size
Proper sizing is important when it comes to your home’s air conditioning system. If the AC is too small for the size of your home, it can’t cool properly. Make sure that your AC is correctly sized to keep your home comfortable.
Airflow obstructions
Aside from a dirty air filter, your AC may experience other airflow obstructions. Cracked or leaking ductwork is one common cause, while blocked supply and return vents are another. Without good airflow, the air conditioner can’t cool your home.
Electrical issues
Several electrical issues could cause your AC to run but not cool your home. Common problems include damaged or frayed wiring, a tripped circuit breaker, or a faulty capacitor. If you suspect an electrical issue, contact Cozy Home Services right away.
Aging or an inefficient AC unit
As your AC unit ages, it can no longer cool your home as effectively as it once did. When the unit is inefficient, it may run, but it can’t keep your home cool. In this case, it might be best to schedule a professional replacement for optimum performance.
How To Troubleshoot an AC That’s Not Cooling
If you’re wondering, “Why is my central air not cooling?” try these tips to help you troubleshoot the issue:
- Check your air filter and if it’s clogged or dirty, replace it immediately.
- Examine the outdoor condenser unit and condenser coils, looking for dirt or debris that could clog them. Remove any debris, then gently clean the unit with a garden hose.
- Schedule a professional air duct inspection to look for damage and other issues that may impact airflow.
- Make sure all your air vents are clear of obstructions, such as furniture, electronics, or area rugs.
- Confirm that your thermostat is working, it’s on “cool,” and it’s set to a lower temperature.
- Make sure the AC circuit breaker isn’t tripped at the main electrical panel.
- Listen for strange noises and contact a professional if you hear anything unusual, such as hissing, banging, or rattling.
Preventative Measures To Keep Your AC Running Smoothly
Fortunately, you can take preventative measures to keep your AC running smoothly. Implement these tips to prolong your system’s lifespan and keep your home cool all summer:
- Schedule seasonal AC maintenance at least once each year for a professional inspection, system cleaning, and tune-up.
- Change your air filter as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions or whenever it becomes dirty.
- Inspect the outdoor unit and remove leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris to keep it clean.
- Never block any air vents..
- Change the battery in your thermostat (if applicable) at least once a year.
- Have your ductwork inspected and repaired, if needed, to support good airflow.
- If your AC is approximately 10 years old or older, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient system.
Contact the HVAC Professionals at Cozy Home Services
Cozy Home Services offers comprehensive, expert HVAC services that focus on what’s needed and the most efficient way to get the job done. True to our core values, our HVAC company is upfront about pricing, and our rates are budget-friendly for our customers in Vacaville and beyond. We work hard to earn our customers’ trust and satisfaction, ensuring your home stays comfortable year-round. Contact us to schedule a service today.
