Your air conditioner is running, air is circulating, yet your home still feels like an oven. Sound familiar? If your AC is blowing air but not cooling, you’re not alone. Especially in Roseville’s warm summers, this issue can quickly turn from annoying to unbearable.
Don’t sweat it! Below, we’ll break down some common reasons your AC might be underperforming, potential fixes, and when it’s time to bring in a professional like Maverick Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air.
1. Thermostat Settings Aren’t Right
This might seem too obvious, but it happens more often than you’d think. Sometimes, the air conditioner is set to “fan” mode instead of “cool.” When the fan is on, the system only circulates air without actively cooling it.
Quick Fix:
- Double-check your thermostat settings. Ensure it’s set to “cool” and at a temperature lower than your home’s current temperature.
- If the settings are correct but it’s still not cooling, replace the thermostat batteries or troubleshoot for possible malfunctions.
2. A Dirty Air Filter Is Blocking Airflow
One of the most common culprits behind an underperforming AC is a dirty air filter. Filters trap dust, debris, and allergens, but when they’re clogged, they restrict airflow. This can overheat your system or even cause it to freeze up, leaving you without proper cooling.
Solution:
- Inspect your air filter monthly during peak seasons and replace it if it’s dusty or clogged.
- Set reminders to replace your filter every 1–3 months, depending on usage.
3. The Outdoor Unit Isn’t Running Properly
Your outdoor AC unit does the heavy lifting of cooling. If it’s not working properly, your system will struggle to keep your home comfortable. Sometimes the fan is spinning, but the compressor, which cools the air, isn’t functioning.
Troubleshoot:
- Check your circuit breaker. A tripped breaker can interrupt the compressor’s operation.
- Look for obvious signs like no humming or warm air blowing out of the unit. This could indicate capacitor or refrigerant issues that require professional attention.
4. Low or Leaking Refrigerant
Refrigerant is essential for cooling. If levels are low or there’s a refrigerant leak, your AC might blow air, but it won’t effectively cool your space. Common refrigerant-related issues include rising energy bills, hissing noises from the unit, or ice forming on the coils.
WARNING! Do not attempt a refrigerant recharge yourself. Handling refrigerants requires professional certification.
What You Can Do:
- If you notice these symptoms, call a licensed technician to inspect and repair your system. Leaving it unresolved can lead to further damage.
5. Your AC System Is Frozen Up
Have you noticed ice on your AC’s evaporator coils? This can happen when airflow is restricted or if there’s a problem with your refrigerant. A frozen system can’t effectively cool your home because ice blocks the coils from removing heat from the air.
First Steps:
- Turn off the system immediately to prevent further damage.
- You’ll need a professional inspection to identify whether the issue stems from airflow restrictions, refrigerant problems, or another underlying cause.
6. Ductwork Leaks Are Wasting Cool Air
Sometimes the issue isn’t with your AC itself, but with your home’s ductwork. Over time, leaks or gaps can develop in ducts, causing conditioned air to escape into walls, ceilings, or attics. This means less cool air reaches your living spaces.
Signs to Watch For:
- Uneven cooling across rooms.
- Higher-than-normal energy bills.
Solution:
- Schedule a duct inspection. Professional sealing can prevent leaks and make your AC much more efficient.
7. Your AC System Is Undersized or Aging Out
If your AC system has always struggled to keep up with summer heat, it could be undersized for your home. Alternatively, if your unit is 10–15 years old, it might simply be losing its efficiency with age.
Signs It’s Time for an Upgrade:
- Frequent breakdowns or repairs.
- Rising energy bills with no improvement in cooling.
The good news? Maverick provides expert system assessments to ensure you’re equipped with the right-sized AC for your home. Our technicians will help you explore replacement options that balance performance and energy efficiency.
When to Call a Pro
If you’ve gone through these troubleshooting steps and your AC is still not cooling, it’s time to get professional help. At Maverick, our technicians can quickly pinpoint the issue, repair it, and restore comfort to your home.
We proudly serve Roseville and surrounding areas with same-day service, ensuring you aren’t left sweating for long.
Don’t Wait to Keep Cool
No one wants to endure another sweltering Roseville summer with an AC that can’t keep up. Whether it’s regular maintenance, a repair, or a full system replacement, Maverick has your back.
Call (916) 655-7744 to schedule a diagnostic appointment or learn more about our preventive Wingman Club maintenance program.
