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author
Michael Thompson
Home Energy Efficiency Specialist

Why is my AC blowing warm air?

When your air conditioning system is running but blowing hot air, it usually means that there is something wrong with your unit's cooling process. This is a common issue that can occur, but one that no homeowner in southern Ontario want's to deal with, especially during those hot, humid summer months. 

Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air Throughout My Home?

When your air conditioning system is blowing warm air through your vents, it means the issue lies within the unit's cooling cycle and is likely connected to the refrigeration process that is responsible for removing heat from the air before it's recirculated throughout your home. 

There are several reasons why this could be happening--from incorrect thermostat settings, to refrigerant leaks, and airflow restrictions. Nonetheless, at the first signs of trouble, booking a prompt repair appointment with a certified technicians is essential to preventing further damage from occurring to your air conditioner altogether. 

Common Reasons Your AC Is Blowing Hot Air

When it comes down to why your AC is blowing hot air, it can usually be connected back to either airflow issues or incorrect thermostat settings. Here's a closer look at both of these categories:

Thermostat & Settings Issues

  • Incorrect thermostat settings (fan mode vs cool mode).

  • Wrong temperature setting.

  • Dead or low thermostat batteries.

  • Calibration issues due to faulty wiring or the electrical panel.

  • Programming errors with your smart thermostat.

  • Your thermostat os not communicating with your air conditioning system.

Airflow & Maintenance Problems

  • Dirty or clogged air filters are restricting airflow, making the air appear warm.

  • Blocked air vents or registers from dust, dirt, or other debris.

  • Dirty evaporator coils in your outdoor unit.

  • Duct leaks causing loss of cool air before it reaches your interior. 

Refrigerant & Mechanical Problems

Refrigerant and mechanical components are key to how your air conditioner cools air. So, when something goes wrong in this part of the system, the unit may continue to operate, but it will no longer be able to remove heat from your home.

Low Refrigerant or Leaks

Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from your indoor air before releasing it outdoors. If you have low refrigerant levels or are experiencing a refrigerant leak, your air conditioning system's cooling performance can significantly decreases. As a result, the air being recirculated throughout your home will feel warmer, even when your AC unit appears to be working correctly. This can lead to reduce cooling performance, longer cooling cycles, and a system that runs more often without actually every reaching the desired temperature you set on your thermostat.

Compressor & Outdoor Unit Issues

Your AC compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the AC system, which in turn, begins the heat exchange process. If the compressor is malfunctioning, the entire cooling cycle will be thrown off. This often occurs as a result of the compressor being dirty or debris blocking airflow. When the heat can't be released from the outdoor unit correctly, the air conditioner will struggle to cool air inside.

Electrical Issues That Cause Warm Air

Electrical problems can also cause your AC system to blow hot air. Common electrical issues include:

  • Tripped circuit breakers.

  • Blown fuses.

  • Faulty electrical wiring.

  • Capacitor or contactor failures.

  • The outdoor unit is not turning on. 

Quick Troubleshooting Steps

Before contacting a technician, there are a few simple troubleshooting steps you can perform that may resolve your cooling issue.

What You Can Check Yourself

  • Confirm your thermostat settings are set correctly to cool.

  • Lower the desired temperature on your thermostat to initiate the cooling process.

  • Replace dirty air filters.

  • Check your circuit breaker to see if any switches are tripped.

  • Inspect your air vents for any obstructions that could be reducing airflow.

  • Clear any debris from around your outdoor unit.

When to Call a Professional

  • Warm air continues to blow from your AC system even after troubleshooting checks are done.

  • Your believe you have a refrigerant leak or there is damage to your refrigerant lines.

  • You suspect you have frozen evaporator coils.

  • You're dealing with electrical problems.

  • There are loud, unusual noises coming from your cooling system.

  • Your AC system is short-cycling without actually cooling properly.

If your system isn't cooling even after you've performed basic troubleshooting steps, it's time to call a professional. 

Why Your AC Runs But Doesn’t Cool the House

One of the main differences between ductless AC systems and ducted AC systems is how they're installed.

Central AC System Installation Requirements

Installing a central system into your home typically requires the following:

  1. Initial assessment: A licensed HVAC technician will assess your home's size, ductwork condition, and cooling needs to ensure the central air conditioner system chosen is correctly sized for your property.

  2. Removal of current system: If your home is equipped with an existing air conditioning appliance, technicians will carefully detach and remove the equipment from your home.

  3. Indoor unit install: Technicians will then connect the indoor unit to your existing air handler, which is typically located near your home's furnace.

  4. Outdoor unit install: Next, the outdoor unit is installed on a concrete block, located near your home.

  5. Refrigerant line install: Refrigerant lines are then run between the indoor and outdoor units.

  6. Electrical connections: All electrical components are then installed and connected, ensuring that all safety and building standards are met.

  7. Thermostat setup: A new thermostat is connected and programmed to communicate with the new system.

  8. System testing: Finally the central AC system is charged with refrigerant and tested to ensure airflow is distributed evenly throughout your entire home.

Note that depending on the condition of your existing ductwork, modifications, sealing, and duct cleaning may also occur.

Ductless system Installation Requirements

Ductless air conditioning installations require fewer structural changes to your HVAC system and home, and are often a lot quicker to install. Here's how an installation occurs:

  1. Room assessment: An HVAC technician will conduct assessments in each individual room you wish to install a new ductless air conditioner in.

  2. Mounting indoor units: Multiple indoor units are installed on the walls of each room you wish to have zoned cooling in.

  3. Drilling of small hole: A hole is drilled through your wall to connect small refrigerant lines between the indoor and outdoor units. Drain lines are also installed at this time.

  4. Electrical wiring: Electric work is then conducted, ensuring power is supplied to both the indoor and outdoor compressor.

  5. System configuration: Each ductless air conditioning appliance installed is tested individually to ensure proper cooling and airflow into each zone. 

How to Prevent AC From Blowing Warm Air

Preventative AC maintenance is one of the best way's you can keep your home's air conditioner operating efficiently while avoiding potential breakdowns and other cooling issues.

  • Regular maintenance and tune ups: Homeowners in Ontario should aim to book an annual maintenance appointment for their AC unit's at least once a year.

  • Replace air filters regularly: Most air filters should be changed every 1 to 3 months.

  • Address minor issues early: At the first signs of trouble, book a repair appointment to prevent issues from developing further.

  • Maintain proper airflow: Keep the area around your outdoor unit and air vents free of debris and clutter.

Ultimately, the best way to prevent problems with your AC unit is to book a routine maintenance appointment for your cooling system at least once a year. Aim to schedule this service in the early spring, as it can help you avoid appointment delays and ensure your appliance is ready to function efficiently for you throughout the summer months. 

Comparison Table: Causes of AC Blowing Warm Air

Here's a quick table that can help you determine what problem your air conditioner may be dealing with, related symptoms, and whether a DIY fix vs. professional HVAc technician is needed to fix it:

Cause

Symptoms

DIY fix

Professional repair needed?

Thermostat issue

Incorrect cooling cycles.

Yes.

Sometimes.

Dirty air filter

Weak airflow, warm air.

Yes.

No.

Refrigerant leak

Poor cooling, long cycles.

No.

Yes.

Dirty Condenser Coil

Reduced cooling abilities.

Basic cleaning can be done.

Most times.

Electrical Issue

Air conditioner is running but doesn’t cool.

No.

Yes.

Compressor Failure

Warm air, system struggling to keep up with cooling demands.

No.

Yes.


Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my AC blowing hot air instead of cold air?
If your AC is blowing hot air, it may be due to thermostat issues, airflow restrictions, low refrigerant levels, or electrical/mechanical problems. 
Can a dirty air filter cause warm air?
Yes, a clogged filter can restrict airflow from your air conditioner, making it harder for your appliance to circulate cold air throughout your home, making it appear as though your unit is blowing hot air. 
Should I turn off my AC if it’s not cooling?
Yes. If your air conditioner is blowing hot air continuously, turning it offer and contacting a professional HVAC technician for assistance can help prevent further strain on the unit and further damage from occurring. 
How do I know if my AC is low on refrigerant?
Signs your air conditioner has low refrigerant levels include weak cooling abilities, longer run times, and a system that struggles to reach your desired temperature on your thermostat. Because refrigerant is a toxic chemical, all refrigerant-related problems should be handled by a certified technician. 
Is it expensive to fix an AC blowing warm air?
It depends on what is causing the air conditioning unit from blowing warm air in the first-place, Some repairs like changing out a dirty air filter are quite affordable, while refrigerant and compressor issues may be more costly. 
How quickly should I call an HVAC technician?
If you've performed basic troubleshooting tasks and your air conditioner is still not able to produce cool air, we recommend scheduling a same-day appointment as soon as possible, especially if its during the summer time where outdoor temperatures are elevated. Before calling, turn off your appliance and use portable fans in the meantime to help keep your interior as cool as possible before technicians arrive.