HVAC MaintenanceHVAC Repair
Is your AC running but not cooling? Any number of issues could be to blame, from low refrigerant levels or frozen coils through to dirty air filters and thermostat settings. You might not yet know the cause, but as a Hutto, Texas local, you do know how important it is to get it fixed as soon as possible.
During the warmest months of the year, AC units are in overdrive, trying to keep homes and businesses cool while temperatures in the high 90s are attempting to undo their hard work. While you would hope that your AC unit always operates at its best, all heating and cooling units eventually require care. Don’t delay seeking AC repairs and maintenance as soon as possible for this all-too-common issue. Your comfort and safety may just depend on it.
A Dirty Air Filter is Restricting Airflow
Among all causes of an AC running but not cooling, a dirty air filter is the most common. When the filter is clogged with dust and debris, air can’t move as freely through your HVAC system. The more restricted the airflow, the harder it is for your AC to cool your home. Sometimes, a dirty air filter can even cause the evaporator coil to become frozen.
Can’t remember the last time you replaced or checked your air filter? Inspect it and replace it as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to replace them more frequently.
There’s An Issue with the Thermostat (or the user)
Thermostats can be fickle. A minor setting change or even a battery going flat can cause AC units to behave in unusual ways. Therefore, if you’re having problems with your AC still having power but not cooling your home, set your sights on the thermostat.
Make sure it’s set to ‘Cool’ and that the temperature is below your current indoor temperature. If the display appears dim, blank, or not functioning as usual, replace the batteries.
Is your home warmer than what the thermostat says? There could be an issue with the thermostat or its location.
Low Refrigerant Levels Are Affecting Performance
Refrigerant is a vital component of AC units to transfer heat out of your home. If your AC unit has insufficient charge or a refrigerant leak, it may keep running but not cool your home. Sometimes, you may even notice that your evaporator coil has frozen.
Managing your AC’s refrigerant is not a DIY task, so if you suspect a refrigerant issue, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible.
The Evaporator Coil is Frozen
Pay close attention to any signs of weak airflow, water around the indoor HVAC equipment, ice on the refrigerant lines or indoor unit, or a lack of cool air. These are all signs that your evaporator coil is frozen.
A number of issues can cause an evaporator coil to freeze, including low refrigerant levels, mechanical issues, and restricted airflow. At the first sign of ice, turn off your HVAC unit and let it thaw. If the evaporator coil freezes again, call an expert for help.
The Outdoor Unit or Condenser Coil is Dirty or Blocked
Dirty parts can be more problematic than you think. Just as you would clean your vehicle from time to time, give your HVAC the same love by scheduling professional maintenance. In particular, pay attention to the outdoor unit and condenser coil.
Condenser Coil
The outdoor condenser coil is responsible for releasing the heat removed from your home. Over time, it can become coated with dirt and debris, stopping it from transferring heat efficiently. When your AC is already working hard over the summer, the extra dirt can make all the difference to its performance.
Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your air conditioner needs adequate airflow to remove heat from your home. If it’s surrounded by dirt, debris, grass clippings, leaves, and furniture, it can’t work efficiently.
Inspect your AC unit and make sure anything nearby isn’t blocking its airflow. Don’t attempt to take it apart – leave this job to trusted AC maintenance professionals!
Hutto Homeowners, Check These First
You may not need to schedule a service call with an experienced Texas HVAC technician just yet! Perform these checks first:
- Make sure the thermostat is set to ‘Cool’ and is below the current room temperature
- Check and replace a dirty air filter
- Look for obvious dirt and debris
- Make sure the system is blowing air from the vents
- Look for visible ice
If basic checks haven’t resulted in any positive outcomes, it’s time to call an experienced AC business near you.
How to Know It’s Time to Call an AC Repair Professional
You likely don’t want to call an HVAC professional unless it’s absolutely necessary. However, now is the time if you relate to these signs:
- Your AC is running but not cooling
- There’s ice on your AC system or refrigerant lines
- Airflow feels weak
- The outdoor unit isn’t functioning properly
- Your HVAC is making strange noises
- Water is leaking around the indoor unit
- The system turns on and off repeatedly
- There are significant temperature differences between rooms
- You’ve noticed sudden and unusual energy bill spikes
Call Your Local HVAC Experts at Atomic AC & Heating Today
Should the worst happen and your AC stops functioning at its best when you need it the most, don’t delay calling the trusted team at Atomic AC & Heating in Hutto, Texas.
We proudly service HVAC systems throughout Hutto, Pflugerville, Round Rock, and beyond, troubleshooting common AC issues and helping our customers enjoy fresh, cool air in their homes and businesses. Need a helping hand with your AC unit that’s running but not cooling? Call us today! We’re available 24/7 for emergency AC repair.
