Discover common reasons why your AC might be running but not cooling effectively, and explore solutions to ensure your home stays comfortable.
đź”§ 1. Dirty Air Filter
• A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system inefficient.
• Swap it out if it hasn’t been changed in 1–2 months.
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❄️ Frozen Evaporator Coil
• Caused by low airflow or low refrigerant.
• If the indoor unit feels cool but airflow is weak, check for ice on the copper lines or around the coil.
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⚡ Compressor or Outdoor Unit Issues
• The indoor fan may blow, but if the outdoor unit isn’t running properly, you’ll get no cooling.
• Could be a bad capacitor, contactor, or burnt-out compressor.
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🌡️ Refrigerant Leak
• Low refrigerant = reduced cooling performance.
• Signs include long run times, warm air, or hissing/gurgling sounds.
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đź§ Thermostat Problems
• It might be set incorrectly, or the sensor is misreading the room temp.
• Make sure it’s set to cool, and the fan is on AUTO.
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🌬️ Duct Leaks or Poor Insulation
• If cold air is escaping into the attic or crawlspace, your house won’t cool down properly.
• Also check if some rooms are colder than others—this points to a duct issue.
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âś… What You Should Do:
1. Check the filter and thermostat settings.
2. Look at the outdoor unit—is the fan running? Any ice on the lines?
3. Feel the air at the vents—is it cool or just room temp?
4. If the AC runs but never cools, call a pro. It’s likely low refrigerant, a frozen coil, or compressor trouble.