What to Do When Your Air Conditioner Starts Blowing Hot Air

In Orlando, the prospect of an air conditioner malfunction at the height of the summer isn’t something we like to think about. However, a malfunction may sometimes be easily corrected without a call to the HVAC technician. If the A/C is blowing hot air in your home, try these troubleshooting tips before calling in the pros. 

Check the Power

Before you do anything else, check the thermostat to make sure the fan is set to “auto” rather than “on” and the system is set to “cool.” Also check the temperature to see if it’s set at least five degrees lower than room temperature. The system won’t come on otherwise.

Check the Refrigerant Charge

If the refrigerant isn’t at the right level, the system can’t cool properly. Call an HVAC tech to check the refrigerant and add more if necessary. The refrigerant lines may be leaking, and leaks should be repaired. You can check for leaks by looking for oily grime, but an HVAC tech can do a more thorough job using special equipment.

Change the Air Filter

Get in the habit of checking the air filter monthly and changing it when dirt begins accumulating. Dirt will impede airflow, and this can cause a system malfunction, including failure to blow cool air.

Evaporator Coil

To cool properly, the A/C draws air across the indoor evaporator coil. If the coil is dirty, air can’t be cooled.

Compressor/Condenser

Located in the outdoor unit, the compressor and condenser coil are crucial to the cooling process. See if the compressor is running and if the fan motor is turning. If both are off, check the 220-volt power supply to this unit. If the power is on, the compressor’s contactor may be faulty and should be replaced. If it’s the compressor that’s malfunctioning, an A/C repair tech will need to repair it or replace it. Check the condenser coil for dirt, and clean it with foaming coil cleanser if necessary.

For more on what to do when the A/C is blowing hot air, call Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions. We’ve served Orlando homeowner since 1969.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air conditioners and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Mile Atanasov/Shutterstock”