On the hottest summer days, your family relies on a central air conditioning system to keep the house cool and comfortable. But even the most reliable AC can malfunction and start emitting warm air. If your unit is no longer cooling the home, below are a few areas that might need maintenance.

4 Reasons Why An Air Conditioner Stops Blowing Cold Air

1. Clogged Air Filter

The air filter catches dirt, dust, and other unwanted particles before they enter your system and circulate throughout the home. However, if you don’t change it regularly, it can accumulate too much debris and impede the airflow. The first step you should take when your system stops cooling is checking the filter. If it is noticeably dirty, replace it.

2. Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant absorbs heat from your home that the unit takes in, cooling the air. However, low refrigerant levels cannot effectively do this. If you notice ice on the refrigerant lines, a hissing or bubbling noise from the unit, or water pooling near the furnace, contact an HVAC contractor. These are signs of a refrigerant leak. This substance is dangerous to handle, so professional assistance is necessary.

3. Leaking Air Ducts

In a central air conditioning system, air travels through ducts to reach the various rooms in your home. Any damage to the ducts—whether it is from aging, moisture issues, or insulation loss—will allow air to escape. Leaks force your system to work much harder to reach the desired temperature. Warmer air from the attic can even leak into the ducts, making the home feel like your AC is no longer blowing cool air.

4. Dirty Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coil is the part of your AC where the refrigerant absorbs heat. Over time, it can accumulate debris, preventing the system from conditioning the warm air. Dirty evaporator coils lower the efficiency of your air conditioner and can cause overheating, which may lead to a system shutdown. While you can wash the outdoor unit with a hose, this does not clean the coils effectively, and professional assistance is usually necessary.

If your air conditioning system is no longer working correctly, contact Floodwood Gas & Electric Co. Inc. Since 1959, they’ve been offering dependable HVAC services and propane deliveries to residents and businesses throughout St. Louis County, MN, and the surrounding area. Their experienced technicians will help you find the best heating and cooling solutions, whether you need AC repair or a more energy efficient system. Learn more about their services online. Call (218) 476-2249 for a free estimate.