why is air conditioner blowing warm air

Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?

Is your air conditioner blowing warm air without any apparent reason? If yes, it is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a warning sign of something deeper. For residents in Frisco, North Dallas, staying cool during the long, sweltering summers is essential. If your air conditioner stops doing its job, discomfort can set in fast, and even your health might be at risk. 

The problem often isn’t just one simple issue; it’s usually a combination of factors. By understanding how each part of your air conditioning system works, you’ll have a clearer picture of what’s going wrong. This knowledge gives you the power to spot issues quickly and get help before they get worse. While some problems are small and easy to fix, others require professional attention. 

So what are those signals we need to be alert to? Let’s dig in!

What Are The Reasons If My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?

We have a full season of scorching days over 100 degrees in the Frisco, North Dallas area. The last thing you want to face on days like that is an AC unit blowing hot air instead of cooling your home. There are a few common reasons why my air conditioner is blowing warm air, and many of them have simple solutions.

Thermostat Issues

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

A surprisingly common cause of warm air blowing from an AC is incorrect thermostat settings. If the thermostat is set to “heat” or if the temperature is set too high, your AC won’t cool the air properly. This often happens after a power outage or when the thermostat is accidentally adjusted.

  • What to do: Double-check that your thermostat is set to “cool”. Plus, the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. This simple adjustment might fix the issue right away.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Another answer to the question of what causes car air conditioners to blow warm air is a faulty thermostat. Sometimes, the thermostat itself can be faulty, causing it to misread the temperature or fail to send the correct signals to your AC unit.

  • What to do: If you notice that the thermostat display is unresponsive or inconsistent, it may need a battery replacement or a complete replacement. A faulty thermostat can be easily replaced by a professional.

Refrigrant Issues

Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant mainly works by absorbing heat and releasing it outside. When refrigerant levels are low, the AC unit can’t cool the air properly, leading to warm air blowing through the vents.

  • What to do: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, call a licensed HVAC technician. Refrigerant leaks are often caused by small cracks or holes in the coils or lines, and they require professional repair and recharging.

Refrigerant Leaks

Leaks in the refrigerant system can gradually deplete the refrigerant, causing your AC to blow warm air.

  • What to do: Professional repair is required to fix refrigerant leaks and restore the system to its optimal cooling capacity.

Airflow Obstructions

Clogged Air Filters

Dirty or blocked air filters are a common culprit for restricted airflow. When the air filter is filled with dirt and debris, the AC unit has to work more to push air through, resulting in insufficient cooling and warm air.

  • What to do: Replace your air filter every 1-3 months, especially during the hot summer months in Frisco and North Dallas. This will improve airflow, increase efficiency, and ensure that the air coming through your vents is cool.

Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils located outside the home can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris. This can hinder heat exchange and cause your AC to blow warm air.

  • What to do: Inspect the outdoor unit and clean the coils regularly. You can hose down the coils gently, but always ensure the electrical components remain dry.

Blocked or Closed Vents

Another component that causes air conditioner problems is dirty vents. If vents are blocked by furniture or closed, the airflow through the system will be disrupted, and your AC will not be able to cool the air effectively.

  • What to do: Ensure that all vents are open and unobstructed. Regularly check vents and clear away any objects blocking airflow.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

If the evaporator coils inside the HVAC unit freeze, airflow can become completely blocked. This often occurs due to low refrigerant or airflow obstructions like dirty filters or blocked vents.

  • What to do: Turn off the AC unit and allow the coils to thaw. If the problem remains, contact an HVAC technician to inspect the system for underlying issues.

Compressor Issues

Compressor Failure

The compressor is the lifeline of your AC unit. It pumps refrigerant through the system and helps release heat outside. If the compressor fails, the system can no longer cool the air, and it will start blowing warm air.

  • What to do: Compressor failure is a serious issue and typically requires professional repair or replacement. If you suspect a compressor problem, have an expert inspect your system as soon as possible.

Electrical Problems

Tripped Circuit Breakers

Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker can prevent the AC unit from operating correctly, causing it to blow warm air. This is often due to a power surge, short circuit, or malfunctioning electrical components.

  • What to do: Check your circuit breaker box for any tripped breakers. If you find a tripped breaker, flip it back on. If it continues to trip, contact an air conditioning repair service to inspect the wiring and components.

Other Electrical Issues

Electrical issues such as malfunctioning capacitors or faulty wiring can also prevent the AC from working properly.

  • What to do: If you experience issues like the AC turning on and off repeatedly, or if your AC unit making loud noise, it’s best to have an expert assess the electrical components.

Duct and Drain Line Issues

Duct Leaks

Leaky ducts can result in cool air escaping before it reaches your houserooms, resulting in warm air being circulated throughout the house.

  • What to do: Have your ductwork inspected and sealed by a professional. Sealing leaks will improve airflow, increase efficiency, and restore cooling.

Blocked Drain Line

The drain line carries away the moisture produced during the cooling process. If the drain line becomes clogged, it can affect the cooling process and lead to warm air.

  • What to do: If you suspect a blocked drain line, contact a technician to clear the clog and prevent further issues, such as water damage or mold growth.

Troubleshooting Your AC: Step-by-Step Guide

Now we know the reasons behind our AC blowing warm air. The next step is what to do if air conditioner is blowing warm air. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide.

StepAction
Check the ThermostatEnsure it’s set to “cool” and lower than the room temperature.
Replace the Air FilterClean or replace a clogged air filter.
Inspect for Blocked VentsEnsure vents are open and clear of obstructions.
Check the Outdoor UnitLook for debris around the condenser coils and clean it off.
Check for Ice on CoilsIf the coils are frozen, turn off the AC and let them thaw.
Inspect the Circuit BreakerLook for tripped breakers and reset them if necessary.
Look for Refrigerant LeaksIf you notice refrigerant issues, contact a technician for repairs.

Bottom line

If you are wondering if your air conditioner is blowing warm air, then it is time for some serious action. Sometimes, it’s a minor issue that can be solved through simple troubleshooting. However, when it’s an electrical problem, refrigerant leak, or compressor issues, it is best to call a trusted AC repair company in Frisco. Keep an eye on your AC’s efficiency as identifying the root cause early on can save you time, money, and stress.

If your AC unit continues to blow warm air despite multiple troubleshooting attempts, it’s time to call Air Repair Pros immediately. We have been providing fast, reliable, and expert AC repair, replacement, and maintenance services in  Frisco and all neighboring North Dallas areas since 1998. Our 24/7 HVAC Service in North Dallas ensures you stay cool all year round.

Call Air Repair Pros at 469-630-8490 or get a quote online, and we’ll have your AC running like new in no time!

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