Hottest summer days and the AC is not cooling? Sounds like a nightmare, right? There’s nothing worse than turning your air conditioner on, expecting a cool and refreshing breeze, but only to be met with hot air that makes your room more uncomfortable and sweaty. This can be quite frustrating, especially when looking for some moments of relief after a long, tiring day in the scorching heat. But, don’t worry. Instead of panicking, find the root cause of why your AC is not performing up to the mark. We have broken down all the reasons and their solutions for why your air conditioner doesn’t cool effectively. Let’s get into it.
7 Reasons Why AC is not Cooling:
There could be multiple causes of AC not cooling, but here are the 7 main reasons that could affect the cooling performance of your AC, along with their solutions to overcome the problem.
1: Check the Thermostat Setting:
This may sound unimportant, but the cause of the AC not cooling enough could be the setting issues of the thermostat. This malfunctioning or the wrong settings of the thermostat can lead to your AC running, but the air conditioner not cooling down your house.
Signs of Thermostat Setting Problem:
- AC is running but not cooling the room.
- The thermostat display is blank or shows incorrect settings.
How to Fix?:
- Verify Mode: Ensure the thermostat is set to “cool.”
- Adjust Temperature: Set the temperature lower than the current room temperature.
- Replace Batteries: If the thermostat is battery-operated, replace the batteries.
- Calibrate or Replace: If settings are correct and it’s still not working, recalibrate or replace the thermostat.
2: Clogged Air Filters:
Clogged air filters are one of the most common reasons your AC not cooling as it should be. The dust and other particles can clog the air filters, affecting the airflow. This can lead to more energy consumption but the AC unit not cooling well.
Signs of Clogged Air Filters:
- Reduced airflow from vents.
- Dust buildup around the vents.
- Higher energy bills than usual.
How to Fix?:
- Locate Filters: Find the air filter in your AC unit.
- For central AC systems, filters are usually located in the return air duct, which can be on a wall, ceiling, or in the air handler unit (typically found in a closet, basement, attic, or garage).
- For window units, the filter is usually behind the front grille.
- For split AC units, the filter is often inside the indoor unit, behind the front panel.
- Remove and Inspect: Take out the filter and check for dust and debris.
- Clean: If reusable, wash with water and let dry completely.
- Replace: If disposable, install a new filter. Check monthly and replace every 1-3 months.
3: Refrigerant Leaks:
A refrigerant leak can also contribute to the low performance of your AC, and the cause of hot air coming out from the air conditioner. It can lead to skyrocketing bills, but no air conditioner not cooling well.
Signs of Refrigerant Leaks:
- AC is blowing warm or lukewarm air.
- Hissing or bubbling noises near the AC unit.
- Ice buildup on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil.
- Increased energy bills.
How to Fix?:
- Professional Help: Call an HVAC professional to detect and fix leaks. For those in Dubai, look for specialized AC repair in Dubai services for expert handling.
- Recharge Refrigerant: Have the professional recharge the refrigerant to the correct levels.
4: Compressor Issues:
AC running, but not cooling? Check the compressor. The compressor is the heart of the AC system, and if it does not work properly, it ultimately affects the performance of your AC. So the compressor issue can also be the cause of the AC not cooling effectively.
Signs of Compressor Issues:
- AC unit frequently trips the circuit breaker.
- AC is blowing warm air despite being set to cool.
- Loud or unusual noises coming from the outdoor unit.
- The outdoor unit vibrates excessively.
How to Fix?:
- Check for Noises: Listen for unusual sounds from the outdoor unit.
- Check for Power: Ensure the compressor is receiving power (check circuit breakers).
- Professional Inspection: If the compressor is still not working, call an AC technician for inspection and repair. Consider reaching out to experts in AC repair in Dubai for trusted services.
5: Blocked Condenser:
Dirt, debris, or other obstructions around the outdoor condenser can become the reason for your AC not cooling on point. To ensure maximum airflow and prevent performance issues, regular maintenance and cleaning of the condenser is key.
Signs of Blocked Condenser:
- Reduced cooling efficiency.
- AC unit overheats and shuts off.
- Visible dirt, leaves, or debris around the outdoor unit.
How to Fix?:
- Turn Off Power: Switch off the AC unit before cleaning.
- Clear Area: Remove leaves, dirt, and debris around the condenser unit.
- Clean Fins: Use a garden hose to gently wash the fins from the inside out.
- Professional Cleaning: Schedule a professional cleaning annually. For detailed services, consider AC repair in Dubai for maintenance.
6: Dirty Cooling Coils:
The indoor coils absorb heat from your house, and transfer it outdoors to keep your space cool and cozy. The dirt in the coils can make it difficult to transfer heat and can affect the cooling performance.
Signs of Dirty Cooling Coils:
- Reduced cooling capacity.
- Increased energy consumption.
- AC unit runs continuously without properly cooling the space.
- Visible dirt or ice on the coils.
How to Fix?:
- Turn Off Power: Ensure the AC unit is off before cleaning.
- Access Coils: Open the access panel to reach the coils.
- Clean Coils: Use a soft brush to remove dust or a coil cleaner spray for deep cleaning.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse with water if using a cleaner and let dry before closing the panel.
Video Guide on How to Cool Dirty Cooling Coils
7: Electrical Issues:
Electrical issues or insufficient power supply can hinder the AC performance, and prevent it from working at full capacity. Issues like faulty wirings or malfunctioning of a thermostat also contribute to the system’s inefficiency.
Signs of Electrical Issues:
- AC unit does not turn on.
- AC unit turns on but does not run consistently.
- Frequent tripping of circuit breakers.
- Visible frayed or damaged wiring.
How to Fix?:
- Check Power Supply: Ensure the AC unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker is not tripped.
- Inspect Wiring: Look for any visible signs of damaged wires or connections.
- Reset Unit: Try resetting the AC unit by turning it off and on again.
- Professional Help: If issues persist, contact A-One, one of the best HVAC companies in Dubai, to diagnose and fix electrical problems.
Air Conditioner Not Cooling? Let Us Help with our AC Services in Dubai:
Is your apartment AC not cooling effectively?
Don’t sweat it! Because A-One Technical is here to serve you with our first-class AC services in Dubai. If your AC unit not cooling effectively, our team of professionals possesses the expertise to identify the root cause of why the AC not cooling enough and fix it instantly to ensure a cooling residential or commercial space for you. From regular maintenance and cleaning to urgent problem solving like AC stopped working suddenly, A-One Technical offers tailored solutions to customers to meet the specific demands and requirements of our customers.
Whether it’s professionalism, transparent pricing, or the dedication to achieving customer satisfaction, we claim to be your trusted partner for all your AC services in Dubai. So, let us be your guide in why the AC in an apartment not cooling enough, and bringing the comfort you and your family deserve.
Check out simple AC Service tips that you can do at home
FAQs on Why the AC is not Cooling:
How do you fix an air conditioner that is not cooling?
Clean or replace filters, check thermostat settings, clean debris from the condenser, and make sure the refrigerant levels are appropriate. If the problem still occurs, call a professional to get checked if your AC is not working in house.
Should I turn off my AC if it is not cooling?
Yes, turn it off to avoid any possible damage and overheating. Identify the cause of the issue or contact a professional for a detailed inspection and needed repairs of why the split AC not cooling enough.
Can I attempt air conditioning repair myself?
If your home air conditioner not cooling enough, you can handle minor tasks like cleaning filters and checking thermostat settings. For complicated issues like refrigerant leaks or electrical problems, contact a professional.
What should I check if the AC is not cooling?
If the AC not cooling the house, check the thermostat settings, clean or replace air filters, check and clean the condenser, and make sure refrigerant levels are sufficient. If still not solved, seek help from an expert.
How can I fix my AC if the fan is working but it’s not cooling?
Check for dirty filters, clogged condensers, not enough refrigerant levels, or frozen coils. Clean, replace, or contact a professional if needed for proper identification and repair.
What do you do if your air conditioner is not cooling?
If the air conditioner not cooling enough, turn it off, check for basic issues like dirty filters or wrong thermostat settings, and check the condenser. Contact a professional if the problem still occurs.
My AC is working but is not cooling. Why?
If your AC is not cooling in house, possible reasons can be dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, clogged condensers, or frozen coils. Solve these issues or call a professional for a detailed inspection.
What are possible ways to fix aircon cooling problems?
Clean filters, remove condenser blockages, identify thermostat settings, and make sure refrigerant levels are sufficient. If unresolved, call a professional AC technician.
Should I repair or replace a malfunctioning air conditioner?
Consider the unit’s age, repair cost, and efficiency. If repairs are frequent and expensive, or the unit is over 10-15 years old, replacement might be more economical.
How do you fix a window air conditioner that is not cooling?
Clean or replace the filter, check the thermostat setting, clear any dirt or debris from the vents, and make sure the condenser coils are all clean. Look for professional help if the AC unit not cooling on point.
Why does my air conditioner turn on but not cool completely?
Possible causes include clogged filters from dirt, low refrigerant levels, blocked condensers, or thermostat malfunctioning. Identify and address these issues or contact a professional for expert problem-solving.
How can I fix a central air conditioner which is not cooling?
If your central AC is running but not cooling, check the thermostat setting, clean or replace filters, remove dirt from the condenser, and ensure sufficient refrigerant levels. For persistent issues, call a professional technician.
