Why Is My Air Conditioner Running But Not Cooling?

The hot summer days can leave you cranking up the AC. When you’re not feeling any cool air coming from the vents, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. This can happen for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to diagnose the problem correctly to ensure efficient and effective cooling in your home.

Thermostat Issues

While it may seem like a solution that is too simple, thermostat issues can indeed cause your air conditioner to run without actually cooling your home. To determine if your thermostat is the culprit, you can start by checking the settings on the thermostat. Make sure that the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature setting is lower than the current temperature in the room.

Additionally, consider the age of your thermostat. Older models may not function as accurately as newer ones, especially if they haven’t been maintained or calibrated regularly.

 

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters are responsible for pulling pollutants like dust, dirt, and other debris from the air circulating through your HVAC system. Over time, filters become clogged with these contaminants, potentially preventing cool air from properly flowing through your air conditioning system. This can result in reduced cooling efficiency and airflow, causing your air conditioner to run, but not effectively cool the home.

Remember, clean air filters are essential for optimal HVAC performance and indoor comfort. If you’re unsure about replacing filters or if you notice persistent cooling issues after filter replacement, consult with Sanborn’s for further inspection and maintenance.

 

Refrigerant Leaks

Air conditioners use refrigerant to cool the air by absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. However, cooling systems can occasionally develop refrigerant leaks that cause them to lose their cooling capacity and efficiency. Refrigerant leaks can occur due to various reasons, such as aging components, corrosion, or physical damage to the refrigerant lines.

If your air conditioner is experiencing a refrigerant leak, you will likely notice liquid pooling around the unit or hissing sounds coming from the refrigerant lines. These are signs of a significant leak that needs immediate attention from professional HVAC technicians. 

 

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils work with refrigerant to absorb heat from your home and push it outdoors. These coils should always be cool, but should never freeze. If they do, they won’t be able to properly remove heat and produce cool air.

Frozen evaporator coils often occur due to poor airflow from clogged filters, low fan speeds, drain clogs, or dirty coils. This issue should both be diagnosed and repaired by a professional to ensure the proper functioning of your air conditioning system and prevent further damage.

 

Compressor Problems

An air conditioning compressor is responsible for compressing refrigerant vapor. Issues with the compressor itself will prevent refrigerant from properly circulating through the system, leading to reduced cooling capacity and efficiency. Compressor problems can manifest in various ways and should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage to your air conditioning system.

Continuing to run your air conditioner with a faulty compressor can also lead to overheating and potential damage to other components of your HVAC system. Contact your local HVAC company for prompt repairs if your cooling system is running but not cooling your home. 

 

Choose Sanborn’s for AC Services in Redlands, San Bernardino, and the Inland Empire

Residents throughout the Redlands, San Bernardino, and Inland Empire areas can count on Sanborn’s for reliable air conditioning repair, installation, replacement, and maintenance services. When your air conditioner isn’t working properly, you can count on our team to provide you with a thorough and reliable solution.

Get in contact with us today to schedule an appointment for air conditioning services.