When you turn on your AC and feel warm air blowing, this is a clear sign of a serious problem. You may feel tempted to shrug it off and hope that things will get better; however, they rarely do. Warm air from your AC is a warning sign. Blowing it off can cost you dearly in terms of lost comfort, more expensive repairs, and a failing system. Here’s why this happens and why you need to act quickly when it does.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant is one of the chief reasons an AC will blow warm air. Refrigerant is integral to the cooling process, as this compound moves heat from your home and transfers it outdoors. When levels are low, your system will run longer in an effort to reach the set temperature but will not deliver cold air. Over time, the strain can burn out the compressor, one of the most expensive parts to replace.
When you have a refrigerant leak, you will either see ice building up on the coils or hear hissing noises while the system runs. Shut the system off right away, and get professional help. Don’t attempt to work with refrigerant on your own because one wrong move can be dangerous or even deadly. Inhaling the coolant’s chemicals can cause serious lung damage and burn and irritate your skin on contact.
Dirty Air Filters and Blocked Vents
Dirty air filters can interfere with airflow. The more dirt builds up, the harder it is for the system to breathe and do its job. It will blow warm air because it is overheating while trying to meet the demand. The same is true for vents blocked by rugs, curtains, or furniture.
Walk through your home, and check all your vents. If you find any obstructions, remove them. Also, change your filter every 30 to 90 days.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Coils freeze because there are obstructions to airflow or low refrigerant. When frozen, the coils cannot properly contribute to the cooling process. You may see ice buildup or water dripping once the ice melts.
Turn the system off, and call a pro right away. Running the AC in this condition can lead to serious mechanical failure.
Thermostat or Electrical Issues
Sometimes, the issue is with the thermostat or electrical components. If the thermostat is faulty, it may send the wrong signals to the system and keep it from cooling your home. Check the settings to see if they are correct. If they are, and all is well with the rest of your system, a technician can determine if you need a new thermostat.
Loose wiring or tripped breakers can also interrupt cooling cycles. Your outdoor unit can lose power while the indoor handler continues working and blowing warm air throughout your home. A technician can find and fix the problem with ease.
If you feel warm air from your vents, do not wait another day to deal with the problem. Schedule a service call for repairs or an AC replacement with Paragon Mechanical in Arlington Heights, IL.
