What Is My AC Blowing Hot? Does It Need a Repair?
Last July, a customer in Richmond, VA, came home from work to a sweltering 88°F living room. Her air conditioner was running, but it was blowing hot air. With heat indexes nearing 105°F that week, her home became unbearable within hours. She later discovered a simple issue had spiraled into an expensive repair. If your AC system suddenly stops cooling and starts pumping out hot air, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. The problem could be minor or a sign of something more serious. Knowing the cause can save you time, money and serious discomfort during Virginia’s hot summers.
Thermostat Settings May Be Incorrect or Faulty
Start with the simplest check: your thermostat. You might have accidentally switched it to “heat” or set it too high for cooling. If it’s a programmable or smart thermostat, incorrect schedules or software glitches could be the culprit. Replace the batteries, double-check the mode, and try setting it a few degrees cooler. If issues persist, consult an HVAC service technician to inspect the wiring or replace a faulty thermostat.
Refrigerant Levels May Be Low or Leaking
Your AC system needs refrigerant to absorb and remove heat from your home. If there’s a leak or the levels are low, your AC system can’t cool air effectively and will blow hot air instead. If you hear hissing or see ice on the air conditioner, shut it down and call a licensed service technician immediately.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow and can cause your AC system to overheat or fail to cool properly. According to Energy Star, replacing filters every 30–90 days can improve efficiency by up to 15%. Check your filter monthly, especially during heavy use. If it looks gray or dusty, replace it. Regular filter changes can prevent costly AC repairs and keep your system running at full power.
Compressor or Outdoor Unit Issues
If your AC system is blowing hot air, the outdoor condenser unit may be dirty, disconnected or failing. Clear debris, check for tripped breakers and listen for unusual noises. If the fan isn’t spinning or the unit is silent, turn off the power and contact a pro. Richmond’s humidity stresses these components, and only a service technician can safely diagnose and repair compressor issues.
If your AC system is blowing hot air, it likely requires a repair to restore its cooling power. Contact Atlantic Shores Heating and Cooling to immediately schedule an air conditioner repair in Richmond, VA.
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