Common Causes and What to Do Next
When the summer heat hits and your air conditioner starts blowing hot air, it’s more than frustrating—it can be downright uncomfortable. At Family Heating and Cooling, we understand how vital a working cooling system is for your comfort and safety. If you’ve found yourself searching “AC blowing hot air,” you’re not alone. Below, we’ll walk you through the most common causes and what you can do to resolve them.
Common Reasons Your AC Is Blowing Hot Air
1. Thermostat Issues
Sometimes the solution is as simple as checking your thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “cool” and not “heat.” It should also be set to “auto” instead of “on,” so the fan doesn’t circulate unconditioned air.
2. Dirty Air Filter
Clogged air filters restrict airflow, which can cause your AC system to overheat and blow warm air. Replacing or cleaning your air filter is one of the easiest and most effective maintenance steps you can take.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
If your system is low on refrigerant, it can’t effectively cool the air. This usually means there’s a leak somewhere in the system. You’ll need a professional to inspect and recharge the refrigerant safely.
4. Electrical Problems or Tripped Breakers
Air conditioners rely on multiple electrical components. A tripped breaker or blown fuse can cause your outdoor unit to stop working while the indoor unit keeps running, blowing warm air into your home.
5. Dirty Condenser Coils
Your outdoor condenser coils release heat from your home. If they’re dirty or blocked by debris, the AC system can overheat, leading to hot air blowing inside. Regular maintenance can help prevent this.
6. Malfunctioning Compressor
The compressor plays a critical role in cooling your home. If it fails, the refrigerant won’t circulate properly, resulting in hot air. A professional HVAC technician can diagnose and repair this issue.
Preventative Maintenance Can Save You the Headache
Scheduling regular AC tune-ups can help catch small issues before they turn into big problems. Family Heating and Cooling offers seasonal maintenance services to help ensure your system runs efficiently all year long.
We proudly serve the communities of New Bedford, Fall River, Fairhaven, Somerset, Dartmouth, and Raynham, offering fast, reliable service from experienced technicians.
Get Your Cool Air Back—Fast
No one should have to deal with an AC blowing hot air during a Massachusetts summer. Whether it’s a simple thermostat adjustment or a more serious repair, our team is here to help. Learn more about our cooling repair services and schedule an appointment with our trusted professionals today.
FAQs
How do I fix my AC from blowing hot air?
Start by checking your thermostat settings—ensure it’s set to “cool” and not “heat” or “fan only.” Then check for a dirty air filter, which can block airflow. If those look fine, the issue could be low refrigerant, a malfunctioning compressor, or a problem with the outdoor unit. At that point, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system.
Should I turn my AC off if it’s blowing hot air?
Yes, turning off your AC is a good idea if it’s blowing hot air. Continuing to run it could strain the system or cause further damage. Once it’s off, inspect basic issues like the filter or thermostat before calling for professional service.
How do I know if my AC needs freon?
Signs your AC may be low on refrigerant (commonly referred to as Freon) include weak airflow, warm air blowing from vents, ice on the refrigerant lines, or a hissing noise from the unit. Low refrigerant levels usually indicate a leak, which should be repaired by a licensed HVAC technician.
What does it mean if your AC is only blowing hot air?
If your air conditioner is only blowing hot air, it could be due to thermostat missettings, clogged air filters, electrical issues, or a refrigerant leak. It may also point to a failed outdoor unit or compressor. Diagnosing the exact cause typically requires a professional assessment.
How much does it cost to fix an AC blowing hot air?
The cost to fix an AC blowing hot air can range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the issue. A simple filter replacement or thermostat recalibration is inexpensive, while refrigerant leaks or compressor problems can be more costly.
