When an air conditioner is blowing hot air instead of cool air, it’s not necessarily a sign of a major system failure. In many cases\u00a0you can repair it yourself, or you may have to call in a professional. Here are a few things to check when your air conditioner is blowing hot air.<\/p>\n
Thermostat Settings<\/strong><\/p>\n Verify that your thermostat is set to cool your home and that the fan is set to \u201cAuto.\u201d When the fan is set to \u201cOn,\u201d warmer air may be circulated between cooling cycles.<\/p>\n Breakers<\/strong><\/p>\n Be sure that the breakers for the system are on \u2014\u00a0turn them off and\u00a0then back on if you’re unsure. A tripped breaker can shut down the compressor\u00a0while still allowing the fan to circulate warm air.<\/p>\n Air Filter<\/strong><\/p>\n Make sure the air filter<\/a> is not dirty or clogged. A dirty air filter can reduce airflow, causing the system to shut down and blow warm air.<\/p>\n Outdoor Coil<\/strong><\/p>\n Make sure that the outdoor condenser coil is not covered or blocked by furniture or other items, and that the coils themselves are not clogged with leaves, grass or small debris. Turn off the power and clean the coils<\/a> if necessary. A clogged condenser can prevent heat from being properly released.<\/p>\n Indoor Coil<\/strong><\/p>\n A clogged evaporator coil can cause airflow problems, leading to a frozen coil and the distribution of warm air. If the evaporator coil is accessible, it can be cleaned with a soft brush and a vacuum.<\/p>\n Refrigerant Level<\/strong><\/p>\n Low refrigerant can also lead to cooling problems. Have a professional check for leaks and proper refrigerant levels.<\/p>\n If these steps have not solved the problem, it may be more serious, such as a major refrigerant leak or a damaged compressor. Have a professional inspect the system and determine the cause. If extensive repairs are required or the air conditioner<\/a> is over 10 years old, it may be time to replace it.<\/p>\n