June to August in Ohio are the hottest months of the year! With it being peak season in terms of humidity and heat, our air conditioners are vital components in our lives. But what do you do when your AC has stopped putting out cool air? If you are currently dealing with a faulty AC that is either blowing out hot or warm air, you may just feel like you are melting! 

But don’t panic. We know the importance of getting your AC back up and running. There are also several factors that could cause your AC to malfunction by emitting warm air. Allow us, your trusted Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling family, to show you the common reasons behind this issue and guide you through effective troubleshooting methods. 

Let’s Troubleshoot:  

Did You Check the Thermostat?  

Consider the thermostat as the command center of your HVAC system. Should it fail, the repercussions extend throughout the system. A thermostat that doesn’t function properly disrupts communication with your HVAC, impacting the operation of your AC. Often, the root of HVAC issues can be traced to the thermostat. So, if you encounter any problems with your air conditioner, the thermostat should be your first checkpoint. 

• Begin by ensuring that your thermostat is powered on and responsive. It’s possible the batteries may require replacement, depending on your thermostat model. 
• Secondly, verify that the thermostat setting is not on “heat.” 
• Finally, it’s crucial to check that the thermostat is set to “auto” instead of “on.” Keeping your thermostat on “on” will cause the fan to run continuously, regardless of the temperature setting. 

Did You Check the Breaker?  

Is your air conditioning unit powered on? It’s possible that a trip in the breaker switch has occurred. If your unit is expelling warm air, there might not be immediate cause for concern. However, it’s advisable to perform a check regardless. 

Circuit breakers are often in areas of the home with less foot traffic, such as the garage, basement, or utility closet. It’s worth checking to see if the air conditioner has caused the breaker to trip. If that’s the case, simply switch it back to the “on” position.  

Did You Check the Air Filters? 

While a clogged air filter might not initially appear to be a significant concern, neglecting it can lead to considerable complications. This is because an air filter saturated with dust and airborne particles impedes airflow, potentially resulting in a cascade of problems affecting vital components such as the motor, fan, or compressor. Regular checks and maintenance are crucial to prevent these issues and ensure your system’s optimal performance. 

Keep in mind, it’s essential to replace your air filters every 1-3 months. This is contingent upon the type of filter you’re utilizing, whether pets reside in your home, and the frequency of your system’s operation. So, if your AC is still not working, we recommend conducting a thorough inspection of your air filters to ensure they don’t require replacement. 

Did You Check the Evaporator Coils?  

A clogged air filter can cause dust and debris to gather on top of the evaporator coil. When the evaporator coils are dirty, they will fail to absorb heat efficiently, which will hinder the necessary heat exchange for cooling to occur. Ensuring these coils remain clean is crucial for the system’s ability to cool effectively. 

Go ahead and conduct a thorough inspection of your evaporator coils. Should you discover that a cleaning is in order, it is crucial to proceed with caution. Click here for comprehensive guidance on executing a proper cleaning of your evaporator coils. 

Did You Check for a Refrigerant Leak? 

Just as your vehicle relies on coolant to deliver refreshing air, your home’s air conditioning system operates on a similar principle. Essential to this process is your AC’s refrigerant, the critical component facilitating the heat exchange necessary to cool your home. So, if your system is suffering from low refrigerant levels or even a leak, you’ll notice a shift—your once cool oasis now expelling warm/hot air.  

If you’re not HVAC certified, chances are you can’t legally get your hands on the refrigerant needed for your air conditioning system. It’s highly recommended to leave this kind of troubleshooting to the professionals. Nevertheless, it’s wise to stay vigilant for these unmistakable indicators of low or leaking refrigerant: 

• If you notice bubbling or hissing sounds from your AC even when it’s off 
• If the air from your vents isn’t cool 
• Or if there’s ice forming on the evaporator coils 

Did You Check the Condenser? (Outside Unit)  

Finally, let’s examine the outdoor part of your system – the condenser. Dirty condenser coils are less efficient at extracting warm air from your home, leading to a decrease in cool air circulation. Over time, neglecting this issue can cause significant damage to the condenser unit. It’s crucial for maintaining your system’s health and ensuring optimal performance. 

1. If you discover your condenser coils are in need of cleaning, the initial step is to ensure the power to the unit is completely turned off, prioritizing safety at all times. It is advisable to wear protective gloves and gently rinse away the accumulated debris using a water hose, selecting a softer setting such as “shower” or “flat” to avoid any damage. Avoid the use of a “spray” setting to ensure the safety of the coils.  

2. Begin at the bottom of the condenser, systematically moving the hose in a left to right motion, inch by inch across the coils, exercising patience and care throughout the process. It’s crucial not to rush this task to prevent any potential harm to the unit. 

3. For more thorough maintenance, including the detailed cleaning of the condenser, we recommend scheduling a regular tune-up and safety check with your HVAC technician, who is equipped to address the more intricate aspects of the system’s upkeep. 

Is your issue still not resolved? While there are numerous steps you can take to address this on your own, there are times when it’s best to consult with experts. If your air conditioning unit is still malfunctioning, our team is ready to assist. Our technicians boast NATE certification and bring a wealth of experience to each job. We’re also available for emergency services 24/7, every day of the year, ensuring we’re always here when you need us. 

Get your air conditioning system ready for Ohio’s heat with your Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling family. Call us today at (937) 412-2911, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!