Even if you have only the best air conditioners on the market in your home, you’re bound to run into problems sooner or later. This can be caused by dirty coils, a broken heat pump, or various other issues.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- There are several different issues that you might have to troubleshoot over the lifetime of your central air conditioning unit.
- Various factors could cause a lack of cold air, so knowing what to look for is crucial to keeping your AC going.
- Sometimes you won’t be able to fix the problem yourself. In that case, it’s better to call a technician.
Keep reading if you’re wondering why your central AC is not blowing cold air. We’ll go over some of the leading causes and how you can troubleshoot them.
Problems with Air Conditioning Systems
Troubleshooting your AC can feel like a nightmare, especially with so many potential problems:
- Power issues
- Airflow issues
- Blower issues
There are a few different causes for an AC not blowing cold air and a few solutions you can try to fix it. Unfortunately, in some cases, you might just need a new unit. If that’s the case, try reading our Goodman GSX13 review to see if it’s a good match for your needs.
Dirty Air Filters
A dirty filter can cause many problems with your central air conditioning unit. It could even make your air conditioner stink when you turn it on. In this instance, it might cause a clog so that the airflow is restricted.
Insider Tip
Outdoor AC units can get dirty quickly, so ensure you keep up with maintenance.
You can avoid a dirty filter by cleaning your central air conditioning system frequently. For more information, look into how to clean a central air conditioner.
Thermostat Issue
If the thermostat temperature is not reflecting the correct numbers, this is a cause for concern. There are a few things that can be causing this problem. Play with your thermostat settings a little to see any changes.
If you need more help troubleshooting a thermostat issue, we have a great article on why your air conditioner thermostat is not working.
Clogged Condenser Drain
A clogged condensate drain can cause ongoing issues. It’s also a problem if you have a dirty condenser coil. For these problems, it’s better to call in a repair technician for help.
For more troubleshooting help, we have a great article on **dual-zone air conditioning problems **that is well worth a read.
Warning
An indoor unit can be loud, so don’t be afraid to shop around to find a quiet model that fits your needs.
F.A.Q.S
Should I pay for an air conditioner repair service?
Great AC repair technicians are worth their weight in gold, especially on a hot summer day. For most major repairs, you’ll want to use professional service to know the problem is properly solved.
How can I prevent air conditioner issues?
Go over your air conditioner maintenance checklist often to keep an eye on how the machinery is functioning. You should also ensure there is always a clean air filter.
How do I troubleshoot issues with an air conditioner failure?
We recommend that you call in the experts if there is a serious problem. Most people aren’t electricians and won’t be able to safely or correctly diagnose and repair a non-functioning air conditioner.
How do central air conditioners work?
This is a complicated process. However, to break it into simple terms, your AC uses a chemical refrigerant to cool the air and a frozen evaporator coil to absorb heat. A fan then sends the cooled air back into the room.
STAT: Over the past decade, the mean annual household expenditure on window air conditioners by homeowners in the United States has remained relatively low, between 3 and 5 U.S. dollars. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343571558_The_air_conditioner_system_Brief_review_of_its_main_characteristics_Part_I
- https://www.usbr.gov/tsc/techreferences/mands/mands-pdfs/HVACManl.pdf
- https://www.sctce.ac.in/faculty/facultylogin/Admin/Attachments/Upload/1548599268_1548599268.pdfr
- https://www.tranebelgium.com/files/book-doc/17/fr/17.wlzvwi1e.pdf
- https://energyresearch.ucf.edu/consumer/buildings/hvac-systems/
