Essential AC Repair Tips for Common Issues

AC Repair: 3 Common Problems When Your Air Conditioner Blows Hot Air

It might happen gradually, over several months, with very few indications that demand attention. Or it might happen suddenly, overnight, or during the day while everyone is away. When it happens, the home, which should be as cool as ever, is very hot and very humid. The sudden turn of events can be quite frustrating and confusing. After the initial shock, it is time to take action and solve the problem. Are you ready for this?

First, find the air conditioner contractor that seems the most natural to you. That might be:

• The contractor whom you use the most often, for maintenance and repairs
• The contractor whose name and contact information is attached to the air conditioner/furnace components

Before making a call, do some inspections and make some observations.

Here are the most common issues that cause air conditioning systems to continue to function but blow hot air.

AC Repair 1: A Clogged Air Filter

Even though air filters are mentioned often by manufacturers, contractors, and the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners continue to neglect this essential action. Here is why air filters are so important.

• Just beyond the air filter is a chamber where cold refrigerant gas meets the hot, humid air from the home combine. The humidity condenses on the tubes and drains away. The air quickly cools and is transported back into the home—mission accomplished.
• Air filters are very efficient, removing dust, pollen, and dander with every cooling and heating cycle. When the filter is not changed regularly, at least every three months, sufficient dust collects, enough to reduce the air flow through the air conditioner.
• When insufficient air passes into this chamber, it produces great stress on the whole system. The refrigerant in the tubes remains cold, but cooling does not move into the home.

Replace the air filter and observe whether cool air moves into the home. Remember to change the air filter on a quarterly basis.

AC Repair 2: Refrigerant Leak

This is a more complex problem. The refrigerant is a chemical formula that readily changes from gas to liquid, and in the process readily accepts, transports, and releases heat. This refrigerant is always under pressure, whether as a gas or liquid. The slightest flaw in the pipe or pinhole in the soldered joints can allow the refrigerant to leak out quite quickly. Evidence of a refrigerant leak includes:

• The loss of refrigerant often causes ice to develop around the tubes containing refrigerant
• Ice can develop inside or outside
• If you miss the ice, it will melt away. If the ice melts indoors, you might observe a watery mess, perhaps enough to cause some localized water damage.

It takes training and certification to handle refrigerants, so there is nothing a homeowner can do.

AC Repair 3: A Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat, located on an inside wall away from the sun, can cause problems that end cooling from the air conditioner. Here are some things to observe.

• Look at the thermostat face for a “Low Battery” indication
• Look at the thermostat face for the temperature; it will be the largest number on the thermostat. It will probably be uncomfortably high for the inside of a home.
• Look at the thermostat face for the temperature setting. This setting should be much lower than the indicated temperature. If the setting is too high, move it to a lower setting and observe whether the temperature returns to normal—cool.
• Look at the thermostat face to ensure the thermostat is set on COOL.

Before calling the AC repair technician, determine the age of the system components. This can be determined by the model/serial number plate. Knowing the age of the system will be very helpful for anyone making an AC repair.

When your AC is blowing hot air, the problem could be a simple fix or a serious issue. This article breaks down three common problems—a clogged air filter, a refrigerant leak, or a faulty thermostat—that can stop your system from cooling. By understanding these issues, you can troubleshoot the problem yourself or be more informed when you call for professional AC repair.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.