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Here’s Why Your AC Is Blowing Hot Air (And How To Fix It)

We have plenty of scorching days over 100 degrees in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The last thing you want to deal with on days like that is an air conditioning unit blowing hot air instead of cooling your home.

There are a few common reasons why your AC is blowing hot air — and many of them have simple solutions.

Dirty Air Filter

One common cause of an AC unit blowing hot air is a clogged or dirty air filter. Dirty air filters obstruct the airflow throughout your ductwork, meaning the cooled air can’t get into your living space. Replacing the air filter improves airflow, the AC unit’s efficiency, and your comfort.

You should change your air filters every three to six months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. This will also reduce strain on your air conditioning system and improve your indoor air quality.

Low Refrigerant

Refrigerant absorbs heat from the air pulled into your AC unit to cool your home efficiently. If your air conditioner’s refrigerant is low, your unit will blow warm air.

Typically, low refrigerant levels are caused by leaks. You need an experienced technician to inspect your air conditioner, repair the damage, and refill your refrigerant.

Clogged Condensate Line

As your air conditioner cools the warm air, it produces condensation. The condensate line channels this water away from the AC unit. If that line gets clogged, your air conditioner will blow warm air or could stop working completely.

Prevent blockages by scheduling routine AC maintenance with a qualified HVAC contractor. An experienced technician can clear condensate line clogs to prevent AC breakdowns, mold growth, and leaks.

Faulty Compressor

Once the refrigerant in your AC unit absorbs heat, it needs to be released outside of your home. The compressor compresses the refrigerant until it raises the temperature and pressure, releasing the heat and allowing it to move outdoors.

Compressors can get dirty or obstructed by grass, leaves, or branches. If this happens, the compressor won’t be able to work effectively, and your AC unit will blow warm air. 

Proper cleaning of the condenser coil twice a year is essential to the longevity and efficiency of your system.

Cleaning the outside coil with a water hose is usually sufficient. However, there are some precautions to take first. 1) Shut the system off at the thermostat. 2) Head outside and identify where the electrical compartment is. The electrical compartment will be a square panel on the upper corner of the condenser and fastened by two to six screws – depending on the brand. To avoid potential damage, ensure no water splashes into the electrical compartment corner. 3) Adjust the spray output into a narrow cone using a water nozzle. You want to avoid a high-pressure stream that can damage the coil fins.

Once you are ready to clean the coil, start at the bottom corner of one side and aim the nozzle at an angle through the grille louvers, spraying the coil inside. Take a medium pace up and down each row of louvers and move to the next row until you have finished one side. Repeat this for all four sides. Remember, never spray in the direction of the electrical compartment, and be sure not to let water splash into that corner. It’s okay if the coil is still dirty around that area. Lastly, do not take the condenser apart, and avoid spraying the fan and the inside of the condenser.

Once complete, head back to the thermostat and turn the system on.

If you are uneasy about doing this yourself, please get in touch with a friendly tech at AirCo to get this scheduled today.

Leaky Ductwork

Air conditioning ductwork operates in hotter, non-conditioned spaces like attics and walls. If your ductwork is damaged, the cool air will seep out, and hot air can enter the ductwork. By the time the air reaches your vents, it will be warm.

You need to schedule professional ductwork repair and air duct sealing services to fix leaky ductwork.

Choose AirCo for AC Repairs in the DFW Metroplex

AirCo is a trusted home service company serving clients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. You can count on our highly trained HVAC technicians to pinpoint the source of your cooling issues and provide the AC repairs you need. With over three decades of experience, we have the training and experience to do the job right.

We’ve earned the Angi Super Service Award 11 years in a row and have a solid A+ rating from the BBB. Your air conditioning system is in good hands with our team.

To schedule AC repair services in the DFW Metroplex, contact the experts from AirCo at 817-591-1225 now. Be sure to ask about our Zero Risk Repair Guarantee.