Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air? Troubleshooting Tips

ac blowing warm air

Are you feeling the heat indoors even though your AC is running? When the scorching heat of summer hits, there’s nothing more disappointing than your trusty AC unit deciding to blow warm air instead of the refreshing cool breeze you crave.

Why Your AC Is Blowing Warm Air

Before you start sweating bullets in the Texas heat, dive in with Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric to explore the common reasons why your AC might be blowing warm air. Armstrong will also provide some simple troubleshooting tips to help you beat the heat.

Dirty Air Filters

One of the most common reasons for an AC unit blowing warm air is dirty air filters. Air filters trap dust, dirt, and other particles. When they get clogged, airflow is restricted. Low air flow causes the AC system to work harder and less efficiently. The bottom line is you will have warm air blowing from your vents. To fix this issue, simply replace or clean your air filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months, depending on usage.

When you purchase a comprehensive ASAP (Armstrong Service Agreement Plan), our trained technician will change your air filter, provide a clean air assessment, and more! Call Armstrong today for details.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from indoor air, cooling it down before circulating it back into your home. If your AC unit is low on refrigerant, it won’t be able to effectively cool the air, resulting in warm air blowing from the vents. Low refrigerant levels could be due to leaks in the system, which should be inspected and repaired by a professional HVAC technician.

For safety, refrigerant levels should only be checked and optimized by a professional HVAC technician. Armstrong employs the best, so you get the value you expect.

Blocked Condenser Unit

The condenser unit, located outside your home, plays a crucial role in cooling the refrigerant. If the condenser unit is blocked by debris such as leaves, dirt, or vegetation, it can’t release heat efficiently, causing your AC to blow warm air. 

You can help by keeping the area around your condenser unit clean and free of obstructions to ensure proper airflow.

Faulty Thermostat

Sometimes the culprit behind warm air blowing from your AC vents is a faulty thermostat. If the thermostat is not properly calibrated or if its sensors are malfunctioning, it may incorrectly signal the AC to produce warm air. Check the thermostat settings and try resetting it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the thermostat. Armstrong can help with that! 

Clogged Drain Line

The drain line is responsible for removing excess moisture from your AC unit. If the drain line becomes clogged with dirt, algae, or other debris, it can cause water to back up into the system, affecting its ability to cool the air effectively. Inspect the drain line for clogs and clean it out using a mixture of bleach and water if necessary.

Electrical Issues

Electrical problems, such as faulty wiring or a malfunctioning capacitor, can also cause your AC to blow warm air. If you suspect an electrical issue, it’s best to leave the troubleshooting and repairs to a qualified electrician or HVAC technician to avoid the risk of injury or further damage to your system.

Should you have an electrical issue, no worries. Armstrong has you covered. Armstrong employs trained electricians who are able to handle any challenge you may face.

AC Professionals in Lubbock, Texas

Experiencing warm air blowing from your AC vents can be a frustrating experience, especially during hot summer months in the Lubbock area. By understanding the common causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you may be able to identify and resolve the issue on your own.

If DIY is not your thing or you prefer the expertise of a professional technician from the start, better call Armstrong. Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric can keep your AC unit in tip top shape with our maintenance program. Contact a team member at Armstrong to schedule spring maintenance or an AC repair.