Why is Your Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air?

It can sometimes be the simplest issues that cause the most frustration in our home systems, and a great example is your air conditioner. This component is supposed to blow out cool, refreshing air to counteract the hot Utah summer period, but what if instead, yours is blowing warm or even hot air that’s actually contributing further to discomfort?

At My Buddy the Plumber, we’re happy to assist clients around the state with all their air conditioning maintenance, repair and installation needs, including in situations like these. We’ll help you get to the bottom of the problem, and the first major step here involves identifying the cause of the issue. Here are some of the most common culprits behind hot air coming from your AC when cold air should be the result.

Clogged or Dirty Filters

Perhaps the single most common issue when it comes to your AC unit is a clogged or dirty filter. These need to be replaced on a regular basis – at least once every three months, and ideally even more frequently than that in high-use situations. Over time, the filters will become clogged with all sorts of debris, including pet hair, dust and other particles that can accumulate within the system. When this happens, air flow becomes restricted, and it becomes increasingly difficult for your unit to operate as intended.

Replacing the filter is a relatively easy process that you can often do on your own, but if you’re unsure of how to proceed or would simply prefer professional assistance, our team at My Buddy the Plumber can help.

Refrigerant Leaks

Another issue that can cause your AC to blow warm air is a refrigerant leak. These leaks can be relatively minor and don’t necessarily require a complete system replacement in order to fix, but they will need to be addressed in a timely manner in order to avoid further damage. In some cases, a simple repair such as recharging the refrigerant may be all that’s needed.

If you believe you may have a refrigerant leak, it’s important not to try to repair it on your own. This is a complex issue that should only be handled by a qualified professional, as using the wrong tools or taking the wrong approach could result in further damage to your system.

Thermostat Issues

In some cases, the problem may not actually lie with your AC unit at all, but rather with the thermostat that’s controlling it. If your thermostat is on the blink, it may cause your AC to blow warm air even when it’s set to a lower temperature. Thermostat issues can often be resolved by simply changing the batteries, but if that doesn’t do the trick, you may need to replace the unit entirely.

Once again, this is something that’s best left to a professional, as improper installation could cause more problems down the road.

Condensate Line Clogs

Within your AC system, the condensate line is responsible for removing water that’s produced during the cooling process. This line can become clogged over time, however, which can lead to a build-up of water within the system. When this happens, it can cause your AC to blow warm air.

Clearing a condensate line clog is generally a fairly simple task, but it’s one that’s best left to a professional. My Buddy the Plumber can take care of this quickly and easily, ensuring that your system is up and running as it should be in no time.

Evaporator Coil Buildup

Another common issue that can cause your AC to blow warm air is a buildup of dirt and debris on the evaporator coils. These coils are responsible for absorbing heat from the air in your home, and when they’re dirty, they won’t be able to do their job properly. This will cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to in order to achieve the desired result, and can eventually lead to warm air being blown into your home.

In some cases, these coils can be cleaned on your own, but it’s often best to leave this task to a professional. My Buddy the Plumber has the knowledge and experience necessary to clean your coils quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your AC unit is able to operate as intended.

Leaking Ducts

The actual air ducts in your home can also be the culprit if your AC is blowing warm air. Over time, these ducts can develop leaks, which can cause conditioned air to escape before it ever has a chance to reach your living space. This not only makes your AC unit less effective, but it can also lead to higher energy bills as your system tries to compensate for the loss of air.

If you believe that your ducts may be the problem, My Buddy the Plumber can help. We’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your ductwork and make any necessary repairs in order to seal up any leaks.

Obstructions to Outdoor Unit

Finally, it’s also possible that an obstruction is preventing your outdoor AC unit from functioning properly. This could be anything from dirt and debris to overgrown vegetation, and it can ultimately lead to your system blowing warm air.

If this blockage is something simple, like a few overgrown plants or some debris, you may be able to clear it away on your own. However, if the problem is more significant, such as a broken component, it’s best to call in a professional. My Buddy the Plumber has the experience and expertise necessary to quickly and easily identify and resolve any issues with your outdoor unit.

For more on this topic, please contact My Buddy the Plumber at your convenience. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you get to the bottom of this issue.