Picture the scenario: It’s a hot day, you go to turn on your AC, and…nothing happens. ACs are supposed to blow cold air, so if yours isn’t, you have an air conditioning problem on your hands.
Charleston, SC, gets some scorching summers, so a broken air conditioner can throw a wrench in the gears of your relaxation. With that in mind, the team at 5 Star Charleston Heating & Air is here to troubleshoot your questions on why your AC isn’t blowing cold air.
Reasons Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
Air conditioner units are complex machines so several parts can malfunction, reducing their ability to blow cold air. Below are some of the most common reasons your AC might not blow cold air or only blow hot air.
Clogged Filter
ACs use filters to remove dust and other particles from the air. Over time, filters can become clogged with this residue, reducing your system’s airflow. Restricting your HVAC’s airflow creates unnecessary strain on your system, which can increase the chances of breakdowns and malfunctions. For best results, you should change your air filters at least once every six months to keep airflow and indoor air quality at optimal levels.
Broken Fan Motor
The blower motor is the main motor powering the fan that moves cool and hot air from your air handler through the air ducts in your home. If the motor burns out, your AC might not have any airflow at all, or the airflow might be very weak, regardless of your thermostat settings. If the fan is broken, it may scrape against the inside of the unit, creating a scraping or grinding sound when you turn your air conditioner on.
Broken Compressor
If your filters are new and your fan motor is ok, then the reason why your AC isn’t blowing air is probably a bad compressor or condenser unit. The compressor controls the flow of coolant in your air conditioner, so when it’s broken, the coolant fluid can’t do its job of extracting heat from the air. A broken compressor can reduce cold air flow and also cause your AC to overcycle. One major symptom of a broken compressor is rising energy bills.
Low Refrigerant
One final reason your AC isn’t blowing cold air is low refrigerant. Refrigerant fluid performs the important role of extracting heat from the air your system takes in using condenser and evaporator coils, creating the cold air you love your AC for. Under normal circumstances, your AC should not lose coolant fluid, so if refrigerant levels are low, there is a leak somewhere in the refrigerant lines.
5 Star Cooling & Heating Repair
Don’t let your air conditioner be unprepared for the next summer season. If your AC isn’t blowing cold air or you have any other air conditioner issues, contact 5 Star Charleston Heating & Air online or give us a call today at (843) 406-1700 to request an appointment!