Have you ever been enjoying an afternoon at home, listening to the AC whir, only to realize that you’re still uncomfortably warm? Many homeowners run into the issue of the AC running but not cooling, and figuring out why can be a challenge.
This blog will explore some of the less obvious causes of this malfunction so you can easily identify the issue and get your home cooled off ASAP.
Only the Fan Running
The sound of the fan in your HVAC system can sound a lot like the humming noise the AC makes. Having the fan on is crucial to distributing cool air throughout your home, but if the AC compressor itself isn’t also on, the fan will simply be spinning warm air through your vents.
Double-check that your thermostat is set to “cool” and not just “fan”. Examine your outdoor unit as well, and make sure you can feel a warm blast of air, indicating that it’s removing hot air from your home.
Malfunctioning Thermostat or Sensor
A malfunctioning thermostat or sensor could easily make it seem like your AC is running but not cooling. If your thermostat is old or calibrated incorrectly, it may not communicate accurately with your AC unit, causing irregular cooling cycles. Similarly, a broken sensor may misread the temperature as cooler than it is, leaving your home warmer than it should be.
To troubleshoot, try testing your thermostat by lowering the temperature setting significantly to see if the AC responds. If issues persist, it may be time to upgrade to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats offer precise temperature control, schedules tailored to your routine, and even energy usage insights, helping you maintain comfort while saving on energy costs.
Poor Airflow From Ductwork Issues
It’s also possible that your AC is running and producing plenty of cold air, but it’s just not reaching you. Leaky, dirty, or crushed ducts can prevent cool air from reaching the various rooms in the house. This poorly sealed ductwork reduces the efficacy of your cooling system and wastes both energy and money.
Keep an eye out for uneven cooling, weak airflow from your vents, unusual whistling noises, or visibly dirty vents that might indicate ductwork issues. Schedule an inspection and cleaning with an HVAC pro as soon as possible to help you get back on track.
Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils
Dirty or blocked condenser coils can cause your air conditioner to run nonstop without cooling properly. Located on the outdoor unit, these coils release heat from your home but can clog over time with dust, pollen, and debris. This buildup forces your AC to work harder with less success, reducing efficiency, increasing energy bills, and wearing down the system.
A regular seasonal cleaning can clear your coils from debris, improving your system’s energy efficiency, lifespan, and ability to keep your home cool.
Electrical or Control Board Problems
If it seems like your AC is running but not cooling, there could be an electrical issue. Faulty relays or problems with the control board can cause the fan to keep running while preventing the system from starting cooling cycles.
This issue is particularly common in older units or systems that have recently experienced power surges, which can damage sensitive electrical components. Since these problems involve complex electrical diagnostics, it’s crucial to have a professional inspect and repair your system to ensure safe and effective resolution.
Undersized System
An undersized air conditioner struggles to maintain the desired temperature, running continuously without effectively cooling your home. If the AC is too small for the space, it can’t meet cooling demands, especially on hot days. This often happens after renovations that increase square footage or change the layout without updating the system.
Signs of an undersized system include uneven cooling, high indoor humidity, and a thermostat that never reaches the set temperature, despite the AC constantly running. An HVAC team can help you avoid this issue by running a Manual J load calculation, which factors in your home’s size, insulation, etc., to determine what kind and size of AC you need.
External Factors that Mask Cooling
It’s possible that your system is working just fine, but hidden culprits are making it seem like your AC is running but not cooling. For example, if your walls, attic, or floors aren’t properly insulated, cool air escapes, making your AC work harder and raising energy bills. Cracks or poorly sealed windows also release the cool air, reducing your AC’s effectiveness.
Excess moisture from high indoor humidity can also make the air feel warmer and strain your system. While ACs remove some humidity, very high levels can overwhelm them. If your AC seems to be working fine, but your home is still too hot, try updating insulation, sealing leaks, or setting up a dehumidifier to reduce some of the stress on your system.
Restore Your Cooling with Bell Cow
An AC that’s running but not cooling is a big problem during these warm summer months, and Bell Cow is here to make sure your system is running and cooling your home effectively. Give us a call for help with inspections, cleaning, repairs, maintenance, and any questions you have about your AC. We’ll be there promptly with exceptional service, every time.