Why Is My AC Blowing Hot Air?

4 November 2020
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Since the main function of your home's AC unit is to send cold air throughout your home, the presence of hot air coming out of your air vents can be a cause for alarm. Fortunately, this problem can be remedied with a few minor fixes, but if the below solutions don't work, you should contact an HVAC company to schedule an AC repair as soon as possible. Even if you're moving into the colder winter months, you'll still want your AC unit operational when the temperature starts to rise again.

Your Condenser Coils Are Dirty

The way that an AC system operates is very unique. The condenser coils are responsible for converting the hot air outside into cold air and then blowing it throughout your home with the fan blades. Over time, a thick layer of grime and dirt can build up in the condenser coils, which can create a thick barrier in the process and stopping the conversion completely. You can remove the grates and clean the condenser calls yourself, or you can schedule an AC repair technician to come by and have a look at it instead.

You're Low on Refrigerant

Inside of the condenser coils, refrigerant turns the hot air into cold air. Refrigerant can be depleted over time and will need to be refilled by a professional since intentionally releasing refrigerant into the air is illegal. It's also dangerous if ingested, so if you suspect that your refrigerant levels are low, contact a technician to refill your refrigerant through one of the service ports in the back of the unit.

Your Thermostat Is Set Incorrectly

Thermostats don't last forever. In fact, they can need replacement in as few as five years, though more advanced models can last up to 20 years. Still, one of the easiest fixes that you can have on your AC unit if it's blowing hot air instead of cold is to simply check the thermostat. If it's turned off, turn it on and switch it to heat to see if it turns on; if it does, then your thermostat is most likely malfunctioning. Consult with your HVAC technician when you schedule an AC repair service, and if they recommend a new thermostat, have one installed.

Your Power Is Shut Off

Your breaker box controls the electrical circuits to all the different systems in your home, and even a slight power surge can trip the breaker and shut off the power in that area. Your air conditioning system is no different. Before you schedule AC repairs, head to the breaker box and see if the switch has been tripped. If so, simply flip it back on and it should start working, but be careful if the switch keeps slipping, as that may be a sign of a larger electrical issue.

For more information about AC repair, reach out to a local HVAC professional.