AC blowing hot: Top 7 Fixes!
Why Your Air Conditioner is Suddenly Your Worst Enemy
Getting a blast of hot air from your AC on a sweltering California day is a frustrating surprise. Instead of cool relief, you're faced with a wave of heat.
Quick Answer: Top 5 Reasons Your AC is Blowing Hot Air
- Thermostat Issues - Set to "heat" or fan set to "on" instead of "auto"
- Dirty Air Filter - Restricts airflow, causes system to overheat
- Frozen Evaporator Coils - Usually from poor airflow or clogged drain
- Low Refrigerant - System can't absorb heat properly
- Tripped Circuit Breaker - Outdoor unit loses power but indoor fan keeps running
The good news is that many of these problems have simple DIY fixes. The bad news is that some, especially those involving refrigerant or electrical components, require professional help.
Your AC doesn't create cold air; it removes heat from inside your home and transfers it outside. If this process is interrupted, you'll get warm air instead of cool.
Most systems leak around 1 ounce of refrigerant per year, and the average AC unit lasts 15-20 years. If your system is acting up, quick action can often prevent a minor issue from becoming a major expense.
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