AC Repair: Why is My AC Blowing Hot Air

AC Repair: Why is My AC Blowing Hot Air

Ohh, no! When you left home, the air conditioner was working fine, but you returned to it blowing hot air. This can’t be good! A call to the AC repair technician revealed it may be a few days before help arrives. What to do in the meantime? Consider these suggestions:

Initial AC Repair Investigations

Check to see if there are some easy remedies to fix or help the current problem.

1. Check for a dirty or clogged air filter. Changing the air filter is so simple and should be completed by homeowners regularly. Air filters are so often forgotten and allowed to completely clog. A clogged filter greatly restricts airflow, so an air conditioner in perfect working condition cannot cool the space properly. A clogged filter will also create tremendous stress, as the AC components work double-time, trying to do their job.
2. Take a look at the thermostat. The thermostat serves as a switch to turn the air conditioner or heater on; a sensor detects the indoor temperature and when it rises above the designated setting, cool is called for. However, any family member can change the setting or switch the thermostat to the OFF or HEAT setting. Also, the thermostat is powered by batteries, so low batteries might need to be replaced.
3. Find all the vents and returns. If the air conditioner is blowing cold air, but the vents or returns are covered by furniture, rugs, or drapes, the cool air is restricted. A family member might move furniture without paying notice to vent locations.
4. Clean the condenser. The outdoor portion of the air conditioner is called the condenser unit. This is the location where the AC dumps the heat from the indoor space. The condenser is air-cooled, and a fan pulls a tremendous amount of air through the coil fins. Just like the air filter, the condenser should be cleaned often, twice per year is good. Grab a water hose (no pressure washers) and gently wash the grass clippings and dirt that have accumulated on each side of the condenser.

While you are there, make note of any ice or thick frost that might develop on the tubing. This will be useful information for the repair technician.

Coping While You Wait. If you have a few days before the repair is scheduled, here are a few things to do to cool the house while you wait.

1. Use Fans. Moving hot air is not cooled, but it feels cooler. Fans circulate air and bring comfort. Whenever available, use ceiling fans, but make sure they turn counterclockwise, pulling air instead of pushing air down from near the ceiling. The air conditioner has a fan; usually, the fan setting is set at AUTO. Flipping this switch to ON runs the fan constantly, circulating air throughout the home.
2. Open Windows. The principle above—moving hot air feels cooler—also applies to outdoor air. A hot breeze is better than no breeze. Take advantage of times when the outdoor air dips, during the evening and early morning. Close the windows during the heat of the day, especially if the house is empty. This is not a good idea for a long period but can be helpful during the waiting period.
3. Keep Hydrated. Drink more water than normal to help regulate body temperature. Be mindful of pets, making sure they have plenty of water and a fan during the day.
4. Take Cool Showers. Showers reduce skin temperature quickly, so be comfortable.

You are now armed with some useful information that can help the technician identify problems. Try to stay as comfortable as possible. Help is on the way.

Have Questions About AC Repair?

Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help you with your AC Repair needs. Contact us and get the help you need.