ac-hot-air

Is Your AC Blowing Hot Air? Here is Why!

There is nothing more frustrating than when you are hot, and you can’t get relief. You should be able to retreat indoors and expect to be greeted with a refreshing blast of cool air.

But what happens when that blast of air is hot? It’s so not cool.

Don’t get too worked up. Although frustrating, this problem can usually be limited to a few possible sources, most of which require a quick and easy fix.

Here is what you need to know.

Refrigerant Leak

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is a heat transfer liquid, meaning that it transforms the hot air to cool air. If your line is compromised, then the fluid leaks out, and your air remains warm.

If you hear a hissing or bubbling sound near your AC unit when it is running, the leak might be significant. At any rate, you do need professional help for this problem. Call for service.

Tripping the Breaker

flipped-switchYour AC is fitted with breakers to protect from electrical surges.

In some circumstances, the breaker may flip over to the off position.

Check to see where it is.

If this keeps reoccurring, it may be the sign of something more serious with your air conditioner.

Call a professional to get it checked out.

Don’t Forget the Filter

It could be a dirty air filter causing the problem. Have you changed yours recently? You should.

A dirty air filter will obstruct air flow, making your unit work harder than it has to. That means that your energy bills go up too.

It’s not a lot of time to change it every three months, and the benefits are worth it.

If your filter is overly dirty, it can gather condensation and freeze as well, which is going to make your air conditioner blow hot air.

Clean the Condenser

Check outside around your condenser to make sure that there are no trees, bushes or hedges that would interfere with air flow.

Check back often over the summer and trim them back.

Frozen Coils

Resist the temptation to plunge your thermostat when it is really hot outside.

Even though you may think that you are getting your home cooler faster, you are running the risk of causing frozenyour air conditioner to freeze.

Keep your thermostat steady at 72°F.

If it is indeed frozen, turn it off for a few hours and let it thaw.

Thawing should take around 2 – 3 hours. After that, you should have cool air again.