As summer temperatures soar in Redlands and the Inland Empire, a malfunctioning air conditioner can quickly turn your home into an uncomfortable space. If your AC is running but not delivering cold air, several common issues might be the culprit. Understanding these problems can help you determine whether a simple fix or professional assistance is needed. Before jumping to conclusions, remember that these are general possibilities. The safest bet is to have a certified technician take a look to pinpoint the issue accurately! 

1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

Air filters trap dust and debris, ensuring clean airflow throughout your home. Over time, these filters can become clogged, restricting airflow and reducing your AC's efficiency. This can lead to warm air circulation and increased energy consumption.

Solution:
Inspect your air filters monthly and replace them every 1–3 months, especially during peak usage seasons.

2. Incorrect Thermostat Settings

Sometimes, the issue lies not with the AC unit but with the thermostat settings. Accidentally setting the thermostat to "fan" instead of "cool" can result in the circulation of warm air.

Solution:
Ensure your thermostat is set to "cool" mode and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature.

3. Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is essential for cooling the air in your home. Low levels, often due to leaks, can prevent your AC from effectively cooling the air. Signs include hissing noises, ice buildup on the unit, or a noticeable decline in cooling performance.

Solution:
If you suspect a refrigerant issue, contact a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and recharge the system.

4. Dirty Condenser Coils

The outdoor condenser unit releases the heat absorbed from your home. If the coils are covered in dirt or debris, the unit can’t efficiently expel heat, leading to reduced cooling capacity.

Solution:
Regularly clean the area around the condenser unit and gently rinse the coils with water to remove buildup.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils absorb heat from the air inside your home. If these coils freeze, they can’t effectively absorb heat, resulting in warm air output. Causes include restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels.

Solution:
Turn off the AC to allow the coils to thaw. Check for airflow restrictions and consult a professional if the problem persists.

6. Electrical Issues

Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or tripped circuit breakers can disrupt the power supply to your AC unit, preventing it from functioning correctly.

Solution:
Inspect your home’s electrical panel for tripped breakers or blown fuses. If issues continue, seek assistance from a qualified electrician or HVAC technician.

When to Call the Professionals

While some AC issues can be resolved with basic maintenance, others require professional expertise. If you’ve tried the above solutions and your AC still isn’t blowing cold air, it’s time to call in the experts.

Our team at Lasting Legacy Plumbing, Heating & Air has been serving Redlands and the Inland Empire with reliable, top-rated HVAC service. We offer comprehensive diagnostics and repairs to get your AC back in top shape.

Special Offer:
Schedule your AC inspection today and receive our $79 Tune-Up Special to ensure your system is ready for the summer heat.

Don’t let a malfunctioning AC disrupt your comfort.
Call us at (909) 280-5511 or book your service online!