An air conditioner that’s not delivering cool air is about as worthless as a comedian who can’t make people laugh, and can be just as uncomfortable. The difference is that you can actually fix the air conditioner. Find out why your A/C is blowing hot air and learn what you can do about it.
Check the Thermostat
If the A/C is actually circulating hot air, there’s really only one explanation, and it’s a simple one. The thermostat has been accidentally set to “Heat.” This is an easy fix; just flick the setting to “Cool.”
The air may not be cool if the air conditioner’s fan setting has been switched to “Fan Only” or “On.” Unless you just want to circulate air without cooling or heating it, the fan should be set to “Auto.”
Remove Any Obstructions
If airflow has been blocked indoors or outdoors, this can also make it difficult for a central A/C to cool your home. Check around the outside condenser/compressor to ensure nothing is blocking the flow of air. This might be brush, leaves or other yard debris. Inside the house, make sure vents and registers aren’t blocked by furniture, drapes or rugs.
Change the Air Filter
Inspect the air filter to make sure it’s not coated in dust and other material. A clogged air filter will make your A/C work harder to cool the home, and some rooms may never get cool enough. Change the filter if it looks dirty.
Clean Coils
Dirty evaporator and condensing coils also can impede household cooling. If a layer of dust and muck accumulates on the coils, they can’t efficiently complete the heat-exchange process that’s vital for air conditioning. You’ll probably want your A/C technician to handle this chore.
Annual preventative maintenance on your system will help prevent instances when the A/C is blowing hot air or just not delivering enough cool air. Contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. We serve Dayton area homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”
