Why Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
Why Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
Coming home to find your air conditioner blowing warm air can be more than just uncomfortable—it can be downright distressing. While this common air conditioning problem can stem from various issues, understanding the causes can help you determine whether it’s a simple fix or time to call in the professionals.
Here, our team at Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning explores why your AC might not be cooling properly, what you can do about it, and how AC repair in Salem, Oregon, can help.
Understanding Your AC System
It’s helpful to understand how your air conditioning system works before going over the problems. Your AC unit operates on a relatively simple principle: it uses refrigerant to absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside. The process begins when liquid refrigerant passes through indoor evaporator coils, absorbing heat from your home’s air and transforming into a cold gas. A fan then blows across these refrigerant-cooled coils, pushing cold air through your ductwork. The gaseous refrigerant carries the absorbed heat to your outdoor unit, where it releases the heat and returns to liquid form, continuing the cycle.
Refrigerant Issues: A Common Culprit
One of the most frequent causes of poor cooling performance is refrigerant-related problems. Your AC system relies on a specific amount of refrigerant to function properly. When refrigerant levels drop due to leaks, your system loses its ability to effectively cool your home. You might notice not only reduced cooling but also increased humidity levels inside your house, which make it feel even warmer than it actually is.
Refrigerant leaks require professional attention. They can be difficult to locate and repair, and only certified HVAC technicians can legally handle refrigerant. If you suspect a leak, it’s important to have it looked at quickly, as running your system with low refrigerant can cause additional damage to other components.
The Critical Role of Air Filters
What many homeowners don’t realize is that something as simple as a dirty air filter can cause their AC to stop cooling effectively. Your air filter works continuously throughout the year as it traps everything from dust and pollen to pet hair and lint. When these filters become clogged, they restrict airflow to your system, which can cause several problems such as:
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- Increased energy consumption
- Potential system shutdowns
- Accelerated wear on AC components
- Possible damage to evaporator coils
The good news is that filter maintenance is something most homeowners can handle themselves. For optimal performance, change your filters every three months, or more frequently if you have pets or live in a particularly dusty area.
Evaporator and Condenser Coil Problems
Even with regular filter changes, your system’s coils can develop issues over time. The evaporator coil, located inside your home, is particularly susceptible to mold and mildew growth due to constant moisture exposure. When coils become dirty or damaged, they can’t efficiently transfer heat, which leads to poor cooling performance.
Frozen coils are another common issue, often resulting from low refrigerant levels or airflow problems. If you notice ice building up on your indoor unit, turn off your system immediately and contact a professional to prevent further damage.
Ventilation and Airflow Obstacles
Sometimes the problem isn’t with your AC unit itself but with the path the air takes through your home. Several ventilation issues can prevent proper cooling, including:
- Blocked or closed supply vents
- Clogged return air registers
- Damaged or leaking ductwork
- Improperly sized ductwork
- Pest damage to ventilation systems
Take a moment to inspect all visible vents in your home. Ensure they’re open and unobstructed by furniture, curtains, or other items. If you notice certain rooms aren’t cooling properly while others are fine, this could indicate a ductwork problem requiring professional inspection.
Thermostat Troubles
Before assuming your AC has a major problem, always check your thermostat first. Sometimes the solution is as simple as:
- Verifying the system is set to “Cool” instead of “Heat”
- Ensuring the temperature setting is correct
- Checking/replacing thermostat batteries
- Confirming the thermostat is properly calibrated
If your thermostat isn’t functioning correctly, your AC won’t know when to turn on or off. This will lead to comfort issues throughout your home.
The Value of Preventive Maintenance
Many AC problems can be prevented through regular maintenance. Scheduling professional tune-ups twice yearly—ideally in spring and fall—can help:
- Identify potential problems before they become serious
- Maintain optimal system efficiency
- Extend your AC’s lifespan
- Prevent unexpected breakdowns
- Save money on energy bills
- Ensure proper cooling when you need it most
During these maintenance visits, technicians can clean coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, and ensure all components are functioning properly.
When to Call a Professional AC Repair Service in Salem, Oregon
While some AC issues have simple solutions, others require professional expertise. Contact an HVAC professional if you notice:
- Unusual noises from your AC unit
- Ice formation on any part of the system
- Water leaks around your indoor unit
- Consistently poor cooling performance
- Frequent system cycling
- Unexplained increases in energy bills
Attempting DIY repairs on complex AC problems can often lead to more expensive repairs or even system replacement.
Contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning for AC Repair in Salem, Oregon!
When your air conditioner isn’t performing as it should, you need a reliable HVAC partner who understands both the technical aspects of AC repair and the importance of prompt service. At Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Salem residents stay comfortable through every season with expert AC repair services, maintenance, and installation.
Our certified technicians are equipped to diagnose and repair all makes and models of air conditioning systems, and we pride ourselves on providing honest, professional service at competitive rates.
Don’t wait until your AC problems become unbearable—contact us today to schedule a service appointment and let us help restore your home’s comfort!
