Why is My AC Blowing Hot Air? 5 Troubleshooting Tips
July 01, 2020
New Jersey summer heat can be unbearable. The last thing you want is your AC blowing hot air!If your air conditioning isn’t working properly, try these troubleshooting tips and then call the experts at A.J. Perri Plumbing, Heating and Cooling for quality help.
Why Your AC is Blowing Hot Air: 5 Troubleshooting Tips
Tip #1: Check the thermostat
To rule out any larger problems, always check your thermostat first if your home isn't cooling down or the A/C is blowing hot air. Make sure it is set to “COOL” and the fan is set to “AUTO.” Perhaps something was reset or someone changed the schedule to “HEAT” by accident.
A.J. Perri proudly offers the Nest Learning Thermostat, so you won't have to worry about errors when editing schedules. Ask us if Nest is compatible with your system.
Tip #2: Clean your unit
If your system or outdoor unit is dirty, then it may not be working at full capacity and could even cause your AC to blow warm air. You can change the filter and clean the outdoor unit yourself (after turning it off), or you can schedule an A.J. Perri 21-step Precision Tune-up so that one of our expert technicians can get your system up and running as it should!
A.J. Perri always offers the best in-home cooling as a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer. Our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee means that you can trust your air conditioner to keep your family cool and comfortable.
Tip #3: Check the circuit breaker
Your unit may be blowing hot air if it has recently lost power. Take a look at your circuit breaker to see if the AC has tripped it or if there are any blown fuses. Electrical issues are very serious, so be sure to call an expert at A.J. Perri if your HVAC system is losing power.
Tip #4: Look for leaks
Check for leaks around your AC unit if it continues to blow hot air. Refrigerants are essential to cool the air in the unit before sending it into your home, so low or leaking refrigerant could be the culprit of hot air in your home. Blocked or cracked drain lines aren't good for your unit either, so always schedule an HVAC visit if you see a puddle near your AC unit.
Tip #5: Call your A/C technician
Sometimes, DIY troubleshooting only goes so far. Here are clear signs that it’s time to call A.J. Perri:
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Your AC runs constantly, but still doesn’t cool the house
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You notice weak airflow even after changing the filter
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The unit cycles on and off more frequently than usual
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You hear strange noises like hissing, buzzing, or clanking
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There’s a burning smell, gas odor, or tripped breaker you can’t reset
We’re here to diagnose the problem quickly and fix it right—the first time. Call the professionals at A.J. Perri or schedule online. We always guarantee our top-notch repair services on both Carrier systems, as well as all makes and models of air conditioners, including ductless mini-splits. Our industry-certified, trained technicians are available 24/7 (including evenings and weekends) for your convenience.
OTHER COMMON REASONS YOUR AC IS BLOWING WARM AIR
When your AC is blowing warm or even hot air, it usually means something is interrupting the cooling cycle. Below are the most common culprits:
- Clogged Air Filter: A dirty or blocked filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to overheat.
- Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris around the outdoor unit can prevent heat from being released outside. A maintenance visit might be necessary.
- Frozen Evaporator Coil: When airflow is restricted or refrigerant is low, the coil can freeze, blocking cooling.
- Compressor or Capacitor Failure: These parts are essential for the cooling cycle—if they fail, your AC might run, but it won’t cool.
STAY COOL WITH HELP FROM A.J. PERRI
No one wants to sweat through summer wondering why their AC is blowing warm air. Whether it’s a simple thermostat fix or a more complex system repair, A.J. Perri is here to help you stay cool and stress-free in New Jersey. No need to worry about the unexpected expense—we offer financing and specials to help ease the blow.
We’ve been keeping homes comfortable for New Jersey homeowners for over 40 years with expert service, honest advice, and satisfaction guaranteed. If your AC is acting up, let our licensed team handle it.