BLOG: Why is My A/C Blowing Warm Air? Troubleshooting for Spokane Homeowners

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as turning on your air conditioner on a warm Spokane day, only to be met with a blast of warm, stale air. Before panic sets in, know that this is a common issue, and often, the solution is simpler than you might think. While some problems require professional attention, there are a few things you can check yourself.

Common Reasons Your AC Might Be Blowing Warm Air:

1. Thermostat Settings: This might seem obvious, but double-check your thermostat. Is it set to “Cool” and not “Fan” or “Heat”? Is the temperature set lower than the current room temperature? Sometimes, a simple adjustment is all it takes. If you suspect a problem with the unit itself, consider a professional thermostat repair.
2. Clogged Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your AC unit to work harder and potentially leading to a frozen evaporator coil. When the coil freezes, it can’t absorb heat effectively, resulting in warm air. Check your filter and replace it if it’s dirty. This is a common culprit and an easy fix!
3. Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is the chemical that absorbs heat from your home’s air. If your system is low on refrigerant, it’s usually due to a leak. This is a job for a professional, as adding refrigerant without fixing the leak is only a temporary solution.
    
4. Dirty Condenser Coils: Your outdoor unit (condenser) contains coils that release heat from your home to the outside. If these coils are covered in dirt, leaves, or debris, they can’t dissipate heat efficiently, leading to warm air inside. Ensure the area around your outdoor unit is clear.
5. Frozen Evaporator Coil: If your indoor unit’s evaporator coil freezes (often due to restricted airflow from a dirty filter or low refrigerant), it can’t absorb heat. You might see ice on the copper lines. Turn off your AC and let it thaw for a few hours before restarting.
6. Duct Leaks: If your ductwork has leaks, cool air can escape into unconditioned spaces (like your attic or crawl space) before reaching your living areas, making your AC seem ineffective.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve checked these common issues and your AC is still blowing warm air, it’s time to call in the experts. Issues like refrigerant leaks, compressor problems, or electrical malfunctions require the knowledge and tools of a certified HVAC technician. Regular AC maintenance can help prevent many of these issues.

At Banner Furnace & Fuel, we’re here to diagnose and fix any AC problem, ensuring your Spokane home stays cool and comfortable.

Is your AC blowing warm air? Visit https://bannerfuel.com/air-conditioning-repair-and-maintenance/