air conditioner not cooling

When the temperatures rise and it gets too hot outside, having a fully functional air conditioning system becomes essential to maintaining a comfortable environment in your home. However, there are times when you might find that your central air conditioner is running but not lowering the indoor temperature effectively. That’s when you should be looking at what’s wrong with your air conditioner and understand whether you should call an HVAC service expert.

In this article, we’re looking at all the issues that you can have with your air conditioner and how you should fix it.

What can go wrong with your Air Conditioners?

1. Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter is one of the most obvious, but sometimes disregarded, reasons why an air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air. The major function of the air filter is to keep the air within a space clean and maintain the indoor air quality by capturing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. But, your air conditioner will have a harder time circulating cool air if the filter is too full of debris and will blow warm indoor air instead.

Solution:

Seasons with heavy use, such as summer and spring, require more frequent inspection and replacement of the air filter. Follow these steps to do it on your own:

  • Turn off the power to the AC unit.

  • Make your way to the air filter slot; if you need help finding it, consult your air conditioner’s manual.

  • Pull the old filter out. If it’s dirty, get a new one that fits your air conditioner’s specifications in terms of size and type.

  • When you put in the replacement filter, make sure the arrows point in the direction that the airflow will be moving (into the AC unit).

  • Turn the power back on.

Maintenance as easy as changing the air filter can have a big impact on how well your air conditioner works. Replace the filter as needed; inspect it every 30-60 days.

2. Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen evaporator coil could be the cause of your air conditioner turning on but failing to cool your house. The purpose of this coil, which is housed within your unit, is to extract heat from the air in your home. When airflow is limited, as it can be due to a blocked filter, blocked ducts, or low refrigerant, the coil’s temperature drops too low, and ice forms. The coil’s functionality may be compromised as a result of this ice accumulation.

How to deal with this issue:

If you suspect the evaporator coil is frozen:

  • To begin, turn off the AC and wait for the coil to thaw—this may take a few hours.

  • Once the ice has melted, inspect the air filter and replace it if it appears dirty.

  • Make sure there is no obstruction blocking any of the air registers.

  • If the issue persists, it could be a sign of low refrigerant levels or a more significant airflow problem. Get in touch with an HVAC expert for a detailed assessment and get it repaired if needed.

3. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerators can’t do their job of removing heat from your house without a well-functioning refrigerant. A refrigerant line leak might cause the cooling efficiency to decrease. You can tell there’s a refrigerant leak when you see ice forming on the outside unit and lines, a spike in energy bills, and a noticeable decrease in cooling power.

Solution:

Expert training and specialized equipment are required for the safe handling of refrigerant due to its unique chemical features and strict environmental standards. The first thing you can do, though, is:

  • Listen for hissing or bubbling sounds if you suspect that your air conditioner could be losing refrigerant.

  • Check the refrigerant lines visually for any buildup of frost or ice.

  • You must immediately call a certified HVAC technician if you see any leaks. In many locations, improper handling of refrigerant without the appropriate certification is prohibited and can result in severe health risks.

4. Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is the central component of an air conditioner and determines when and how your home will be cooled. A broken or malfunctioning thermostat control could leave your home uncomfortably cooled by the air conditioner.

First things first: make sure the temperature inside is lower than the “cool” setting on the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat can be the cause of the air conditioner’s inability to cool even after you’ve checked all of the settings.

How to Address a Faulty Thermostat:

To get certain thermostats back to functioning properly, it is often sufficient to simply replace the batteries that have discharged.

Keep an eye out for dust and other things that could get stuck in the thermostat and stop it from working. Allow enough time to open the thermostat case and clean it with a soft brush or cloth.

You need to set up your thermostat properly if you want it to give you correct readings. So, it is recommended to keep it away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Find out how the room’s actual temperature compares to the thermostat reading by using a second, independent thermometer. Changing the thermostat or checking it will be easier with this. Changing the temperature settings could be necessary if there is a discrepancy.

You should probably have a pro come and fix or replace the thermostat if you’ve already tried these things and nothing has worked.

5. Dirty Condenser Coil

The condenser coil, which is part of the outside unit of your air conditioner, is crucial for removing heat from your house. Clogged coils in your outdoor condenser unit reduce the device’s ability to dissipate heat, which in turn reduces the efficiency and effectiveness of your cooling system.

How to Clean a Dirty Condenser Coil:

For your own safety, you should always start by shutting off the electricity to the air conditioner at the electrical box.

Clear the area around the condenser unit of any leaves, grass, or other debris. When this builds up, it might block the flow of cold air blowing into your home.

To remove any dirt or grime, carefully rinse the condenser coil from the outside using a garden hose. If the dirt is deeply inside, you may locate coil cleaners at most hardware stores. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the cleaner to the coil and then rinse it off.

Airflow might be restricted by bent coil fins. To carefully straighten out any crooked fins, use a fin comb.

It is possible to clean the condenser coil on your own, but if the coil is too dirty or you aren’t confident in your skills, it is recommended to hire a professional.

6. Inadequate Air Flow

Without sufficient airflow, no air conditioner can effectively cool a room. If your air vents and ducts are unclean, clogged, or otherwise malfunctioning, the cooled air won’t be able to reach every room.

Improving Airflow in Your AC System:

Check air vents: Verify that all air vents are open and free of obstructions like curtains or furniture.

Clean air ducts: Over time, ducts can become clogged with debris and dust. If the quality of the air in your home has been progressively dropping or dust has accumulated, it might be time to call a professional to clean the ducts.

Inspect the air handler: Make sure the air handler’s blower fan is clean and in good working order by inspecting it. To clean a dirty fan, turn off the power and use a gentle brush on the blades.

Evaluate ductwork layout: Be sure to inspect the ducting architecture; badly constructed ductwork could cause serious airflow issues. If the issue continues, a professional HVAC specialist may inspect your system and advise you on any ducting modifications that may be required to get the airflow back to normal.

7. Compressor malfunctions

The compressor plays an essential role in your air conditioner’s cooling process. If it fails, the cooling system will not work correctly or at all. Now, a compressor can fail for a variety of reasons, including electrical issues, regular wear and tear, or a lack of refrigerant, and it can cause the compressor to overheat and eventually stop working.

Should You Fix It Yourself?

Do not attempt to repair a malfunctioning compressor by yourself. Environmental regulations apply to compressors on account of the intricacy of their internal components and the refrigerant they process. Specific expertise and equipment are frequently necessary for the diagnosis and repair of compressor issues. If you suspect that a compressor has malfunctioned, proceed as follows:

Identify the Signs:

You can tell a compressor is failing if your air conditioner stops cooling, starts making strange noises, or vibrates more than normal.

Check Simple Issues:

Make sure the air filter is clean and that the thermostat is set correctly before assuming the compressor is faulty.

Contact a Professional:

Someone who is trained in HVAC should check the compressor because it is complicated and needs special tools. A careful diagnosis will let them decide whether to fix or replace the compressor if it turns out to be broken.

What Are Customers Saying?

Check out some of our latest reviews.

dong Lauredodong Lauredo
05:09 13 Oct 24
they are very professional people , they took good care of the problem .I would definitely recommend them .. very cheerful and nice to deal with
William HucmanWilliam Hucman
00:23 07 Oct 24
My hot water tank failed on a Friday evening. Had spent some time on Saturday morning calling a number of service companies and Comfort Union was one of the quickest to respond and able to execute the work over the weekend. The gentlemen that showed up were very friendly, completed the work in a timely manner, left no damage and cleaned up after the work was complete. Great experience with Comfort Union!
Trang LeiTrang Lei
04:33 06 Oct 24
We strongly recommend that Comfort Union attends to your residential heating, plumbing, and electrical services. Our tank water heater broke down on the weekend. On Monday, we called a few large companies, and all their estimates were on par or above the price point for the following tankless water heaters: Navien NPE-240A2, Rinnai RXP199iN, Rheem CRTGH95DVLN-3, AOSmith ATHR-199X3. During our online search, we encountered a hidden gem: Comfort Union, a small, family-oriented business with competitive and affordable pricing. They strive to adhere to a strict moral code that values integrity, fairness, and straightforwardness. We had the pleasure of meeting Asif, who was patient and took the time to address all our questions, concerns, and needs. He assessed the situation and recommended the most suitable tankless water heater option.We were not pressured to buy products – Asif was genuine and transparent. He used his expertise to guide our decision-making, always considering our needs and best interests. Ultimately, we decided on the Rinnai RX199iN SENSEI® RX Series. This model from Rinnai, a frontrunner in the industry, offers higher efficiencies, higher BTU output, better pairing with existing systems, and forward-thinking technologies. These unique features have truly enhanced our home comfort and reduced our energy bill. Asif and his team were excellent. Their workmanship, craftsmanship, and customer service are unparalleled. With their engineering backgrounds, they combine their vital knowledge to ensure our installation process is of the highest quality and standard. A special thanks to Asif, who worked tirelessly and meticulously to ensure all components were correctly installed and even took extra effort to reposition the water supply line and pipe at no additional cost. These thoughtful additions demonstrate their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, making us feel valued and important. Their commitment to our satisfaction was evident throughout the process, making us feel truly important. Thanks to their professionalism and expertise, the entire process was smooth and hassle-free. Their service was not only quick and reliable but also very affordable.  This affordability, coupled with their superb customer service, a key factor that sets them apart, will make me use them for all my residential heating, plumbing, and electrical services needs. Our experience with Comfort Union has been nothing short of exceptional. We couldn't be more satisfied!
Andrea MendrosAndrea Mendros
16:45 04 Oct 24
I recommend this with a Heart. Found this site in goggle. And they did a very good job.
Abdel Aziz FarahAbdel Aziz Farah
17:54 02 Oct 24
Asif and Ismail were awesome came in let me know everything I needed and it was a smooth install. Would highly recommend them to anybody!!!
Ab CaAb Ca
04:01 30 Sep 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union for three major installations in my home—a new heat pump, a tankless water heater, and a furnace—and I couldn't be happier with the entire experience!Heat Pump Installation:From the first consultation, Comfort Union’s team impressed me with their knowledge and transparency. I decided to upgrade to a heat pump because I wanted to improve energy efficiency and take advantage of both heating and cooling from one system. The team carefully assessed my home’s layout and explained every step of the process, including how the heat pump would function in Calgary’s colder climate. They even took the time to break down the cost savings I could expect over time.The installation was seamless. The technicians were punctual, professional, and clearly experts in their field. They worked efficiently, ensuring that all components were correctly installed, and even took extra care to tidy up after themselves. They walked me through the setup, explaining how to use the system, and answered all of my questions patiently. Now, I enjoy year-round comfort with a system that’s quiet, effective, and eco-friendly!Tankless Water Heater Installation:I also had Comfort Union install a tankless water heater (Rinnai RXP199), and it’s been a game-changer for my household. No more waiting for the water to heat up or running out of hot water during long showers—this tankless system delivers endless hot water on demand!Their installation team was fantastic. They emphasized the importance of proper installation for efficiency and to protect the warranty, which gave me peace of mind knowing I was in good hands. I appreciated that they took the time to explain the maintenance needs to ensure the system stays in top shape for years to come. Plus, they added smart touches like installing a drier filter for extra protection against Calgary’s colder months.Furnace Installation:Lastly, I had Comfort Union replace my old furnace, and wow—what a difference it’s made! They recommended a high-efficiency model based on my home’s size and heating needs, and it has drastically improved my energy bills. The new furnace is powerful yet super quiet, and I can already feel the consistent warmth throughout my house.I can’t stress enough how smooth this installation went. The team was respectful of my space, even laying down mats to protect my floors. They installed a new programmable thermostat and made sure everything was running perfectly before leaving. They also included a comprehensive warranty and provided advice on how to keep the system running efficiently for years.Overall Experience:What I love most about Comfort Union is how they combine their technical expertise with a personal touch. From the friendly office staff to the knowledgeable technicians, everyone I interacted with was professional, courteous, and genuinely cared about my comfort. I also appreciate that they offer full coverage with their installations, including maintenance plans, which makes me feel even more confident in my investment.If you’re looking for a reliable, family-run HVAC company that truly puts customers first, I highly recommend Comfort Union. Their workmanship, attention to detail, and top-notch service exceeded all my expectations. Whether you need a new heat pump, tankless water heater, or furnace, you won’t be disappointed!
Pramila YesudasPramila Yesudas
03:26 30 Sep 24
Asıf and team replaced our hot water tank very quickly and efficiently. Asif was very professional and communicated well with us. Asıf is knowledgeable, I would definitely recommend comfort union heating and plumbing company to others. Thank you Asıf for your quick and responsible work.
Rych 1821Rych 1821
01:19 20 Sep 24
Asif and his team installed a heat pump in my home. They did an excellent job. Quality of work was very good. They were friendly and helpful; happy to explain what they were doing and answer any questions. Very pleased with the service.  Highly recommended.Looking forward to the annual maintenance service from you, guys. Thank you.
Omolade AjetunmobiOmolade Ajetunmobi
05:13 19 Sep 24
Both Moe and Ben were really good and they completed the heat pump install in a timely manner. Very professional and kept our place clean afterwards.
Pablo GPablo G
01:15 18 Sep 24
Tankless Water Heater: Very happy and impressed with how quickly Asif came out to assess the problem, with his knowledge and the response time to quote and install a replacement unit. No pressure sales and upfront pricing with no surprises. I had a quote from another ‘Rinnai Approved’ company who flip-flopped on the work scope, upgrades and advised on new venting (at great cost) that was simply not needed. The tech (Mo) did a good job removing and installing the new unit and so far the unit has been working great.
Glen RGlen R
17:46 07 Sep 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing, and I can’t say enough about the exceptional service I received. Led by Asif, the team was incredibly meticulous in their work, ensuring that every detail was attended to.Their attention to detail and commitment to quality work were evident from start to finish. If you’re looking for reliable and skilled service in heating and plumbing, I highly recommend Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing. Thank you, Asif, Muhammad and the team, for a great experience!
Chris EllettChris Ellett
13:28 06 Sep 24
I had a great experience with comfort union. Even over the long weekend they answered the phone, and were there the next day to replace my hot water tank. Moe called in the morning to give me an ETA and then a text when he was actually on the way. He was thorough, friendly, knowledgeable and would use this family run business again
Berta SiposBerta Sipos
02:20 05 Sep 24
Amazing service Asif, Mo and Daryl. Thank you Comfort Union! On Friday evening our hot water tank stoped working. We e- mailed Comfort Union in 30 minutes they called us back. Very professional and friendly staff. Friday evening we had our quote. Very detailed and clear. On Saturday morning they called to see if we have any questions. The price was very reasonable. We booked the service and that afternoon we had a brand new hot water tank installed. We were very pleased and we highly recommend Comfort Union. These three young man were just amazing! Thank you again.
SamiurSamiur
20:24 04 Sep 24
Professional, competitive and immediate service. Installed a new heat pump from them and it was good experience. Highly recommend.
Charles KabanoCharles Kabano
19:12 01 Sep 24
Comfort Union just finished up HVAC work for the secondary suite basement for us in Airdrie, and I gotta say, these guys did a fantastic job. They installed a new Carrier furnace, moved our old Trane to a different spot, and hooked us up with a Lennox AC. Everything was smooth, and they really knew what they were doing.I love that they’re a family business—and really care about their work and their customers. The crew was super friendly and easy to talk to, and they made sure to explain everything along the way. The new furnace and AC are working great, and moving the old unit seemed like no big deal for them.Overall, just a great experience. If you need any HVAC work done in Airdrie, these are the people to call. Can’t recommend Comfort Union enough!
KyleKyle
21:57 29 Aug 24
Vic DePazVic DePaz
01:09 28 Aug 24
Comfort Union team was awesome to deal with and loved they are Calgary family run business. I will greatly recommend them. Great work.
Kathleen VinluanKathleen Vinluan
01:26 24 Aug 24
Quick and Reliable.
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Calling an Expert for your Central air conditioning system

If you’re facing issues with your air conditioner and it isn’t cooling the indoor air effectively, it’s time to call an expert like Comfort Union. With years of experience in managing complex issues, our technicians know exactly what’s needed for your air conditioning systems. Every HVAC professional in our team is trained and certified, so you can rest assured that your home is in safe hands.

Reach out to us to learn all about our services and get a custom quote for your HVAC services.

 

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