Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?
Imagine coming inside on a hot summer’s day, you switch your air conditioner on, hoping to get some relief from the heat. But instead of soothing, cool air, you get blasted by more heat! Why is your air conditioner blowing warm air?
A number of reasons could be to blame. It could be a minor problem that you could sort out yourself, but if you haven’t had your equipment inspected and serviced for a while, the chances are that it could something more serious. So, if you experience a heated situation, here are a few things you can check out first.
Your Thermostat Is Not Set Correctly
It may seem obvious, but the first thing to do is check your thermostat. See that it’s not set to “HEAT.” Someone in the family may have accidently bumped the setting. Make sure it is set to “COOL.”
Some HVAC systems have three settings; “HEAT,” “COOL” and “ON.” The “ON” setting means that the fan is running, even though the system may not be cooling the air. This is a setting that can be used during milder weather if you just want to circulate the air in the home and improve IAQ (indoor air quality).
Your Condenser Has No Power
The condenser is the outside unit of your system. Your air conditioner must have both inside and outside units working to provide cool air to your home.
Check the circuit breaker to the condenser to see if that has tripped. Most HVAC systems also have an emergency shut-off switch. Check to see that it is in the “ON” position. If your air conditioner continues to trip, the problem is more serious which means it’s time to call the professionals at Point Bay Fuel.
Your Outside Unit Is Dirty or Clogged
Energy.gov’s website covers tips on what you should look out for when your system is blowing warm air. Clogging of your condensing unit with leaves and debris is a common cause.
Clean any debris away from the unit. Cut back on foliage or shrubs that may impede the flow of air through the condenser. Air flow through the condenser is essential to cool the coil.
Your condenser unit may also be dirty. Buildup of dirt on the coils prevents the condenser from cooling the air sufficiently. It is vital that you schedule maintenance annually to have the entire unit cleaned. Keeping the condenser coils clean will ensure your system operates at maximum efficiency.
Problems That Call For an Air Conditioning Professional
If you have followed the procedures outlined above and the problem has not been resolved, it is time to call in the professionals. Entrust your issue to a qualified technician, who may identify the fault as being:
- A low level of refrigerant in the system
- A faulty compressor motor that doesn’t circulate the refrigerant
- Failure of the condenser fan
- A dirty evaporator coil
- A broken return duct
Call in the experts at Point Bay; our proven expertise will solve any of your HVAC problems.