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When you're counting on your AC to cool your home during a hot East Texas summer, the last thing you want is warm air coming from your vents. Whether you're in Tyler, Jacksonville, or nearby, this is a common problem we hear from homeowners—and one that usually has a fix.
If your air conditioner is running but not cooling, here are a few reasons why it might be blowing warm air—and when it’s time to call the pros at Bannister Plumbing & Air.
1. Your Thermostat Settings May Be Off
It might seem like an obvious culprit, but you'd be surprised how often thermostat issues can lead to unexpected discomfort in your home. Before diving into more complicated troubleshooting, take a moment to ensure the following:
- It’s set to “Cool”, not just “Fan”
- The temperature is set below the current room temperature
- The batteries (if applicable) aren’t dead
Try this first before digging into more complex issues.
2. You’ve Got a Dirty Air Filter
When’s the last time you changed your air filter? A clogged filter blocks airflow, which can cause the system to overheat or shut off cooling altogether.
We recommend checking your filter monthly during peak cooling season and changing it every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and allergies.
3. Your Outdoor Unit Might Be Dirty or Blocked
Your AC's outdoor condenser unit needs clear airflow to work properly. If it’s covered in grass clippings, leaves, or dust, it may not be able to cool the refrigerant properly, leading to warm air indoors.
Check for debris around the unit and gently hose off the fins if they're dirty. Keep at least 2 feet of space clear around the unit.
4. Low Refrigerant Levels
Your system needs the right amount of refrigerant to absorb and remove heat. If there's a leak or the levels are low, your AC might blow air, but it won’t be cold.
Signs of a refrigerant issue include:
- Ice on the coils or refrigerant lines
- Hissing or bubbling sounds
- Long cooling cycles with little effect
This is a job for a licensed HVAC technician—don’t try to add refrigerant yourself.
5. Electrical Issues or a Bad Capacitor
If your indoor fan is running but your outdoor unit is silent, it could be an electrical problem, like a tripped breaker, blown fuse, or failed capacitor.
These components help start and run the compressor. If they go out, your AC can’t do its job.
6. Leaky or Damaged Ductwork
In some cases, the issue isn’t with your AC at all—it’s your ductwork. Leaky ducts can pull in hot attic air and blow it into your home, especially if your ductwork is old or not properly sealed.
A duct inspection can help identify issues that may be costing you comfort and money.
Call Bannister Plumbing & Air Before the Heat Gets Worse
At Bannister Plumbing & Air, we understand the importance of reliable cooling in East Texas. If your AC is blowing warm air, don’t worry—we’ll help you figure out what’s wrong and get cool air flowing again quickly.
Serving homeowners in Tyler, Jacksonville, and surrounding areas, we offer prompt, professional AC repair you can count on.
