If your AC is kicking on, but no cool air is coming out, it can feel panic-inducing. As the temperature begins to rise, you're probably looking for a quick fix to cool off while you consider AC repairs. Thankfully, some causes of the air conditioner not blowing cold air are quick fixes that you can do on your own without an HVAC technician.

If your AC isn't blowing cold air, follow these tips from Bloomington Heating & Air to get that cool air back fast! If nothing is working, contact us for 24/7 emergency AC repairs or schedule an appointment for air conditioning services.

Woman Checking AC Unit

Thermostat Settings

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Before panicking, check the thermostat to ensure no one changed the settings. You should set the thermostat to cool and not just in the "on" or "fan" position, which will cause it to run without emitting cold air. Also, double-check that the heat wasn't accidentally turned on. If everything checks out at the thermostat, move on to another troubleshooting tip.

Dirty Or Wrong Air Filter

A clogged air filter is often the culprit for a poorly performing AC unit and can negatively impact the air quality of your home. Typically, you should change a filter every 45–90 days, depending on how many people and pets reside in your home. You should also make sure you are using a filter with the correct MERV rating for your system. If the rating is too high, it will act similar to a clog and block airflow. Check near the filter and listen for strange or sucking noises coming from the AC indicating poor airflow.

Blocked Condenser

Like the air filter, a blocked condenser can reduce airflow and ultimately cause the HVAC unit not to work correctly. The air condenser is typically outdoors, making blockages from dirt, debris, and foliage a common problem. Turn the HVAC system off and remove any visible debris from around the unit. You can also use a wet/dry vac to gently clean the coils and rinse them off with a low-pressure hose.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil can become frozen for various reasons and is best left to the professionals for AC maintenance. Symptoms of a frozen evaporator coil include the following.

  • Poor Cooling
  • Higher Utility Bills
  • Water Pooling On The Floor
  • Frost On The Indoor Unit

AC Unit Is Too Small

A smaller AC is a problem typically in older homes, but even newer homes can suffer from this mistake. The problem is that AC units are rated to cool specifically sized areas. If your home is larger than what the unit was rated for, the system will become increasingly taxed as it works harder to cool the full space of your home. An experienced HVAC professional will be able to tell you if your AC unit is the right size for your space and will be able to help you select and install a new AC.

Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak can be a serious problem. Exposure to refrigerant can cause dizziness, loss of concentration, allergic reactions, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can result in seizures, loss of consciousness, or worse. A refrigerant leak can be caused by many factors and symptoms include the following.

  • Higher Electrical Costs
  • Low Airflow
  • High Humidity
  • Hissing Sound Near AC Unit
  • Frozen Evaporator Coil
  • Increased Time To Cool Home

Because of the severity of a refrigerant leak, only a professional HVAC technician should handle repairs.