What To Do If AC Suddenly Stops Cooling?

by | Jul 4, 2023 | AC Repairs

It’s a hot summer day, and you’re relying on your air conditioner to keep you comfortable. But suddenly, you notice that the air coming out of the vents isn’t as cool as it used to be. Panic sets in as you realize your AC has stopped cooling. Before you start sweating and resign yourself to a sweltering home, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot and possibly fix the issue. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when your AC suddenly stops cooling, so you can enjoy a refreshing, cool breeze in no time.

1. Signs Your AC is No Longer Cooling Your Home

One of the most dreadful experiences during summer is an improperly functioning air conditioner. Coming home to a warm and humid house can be a nightmare that disrupts your comfort. Understanding the signs that your AC is no longer cooling your home can help you take immediate action to get it up and running again.

Unusual Sounds and Smells

If you hear strange noises or smell unpleasant odors coming from your AC unit, it could indicate a problem. These noises could range from clicking sounds, hissing sounds, or loud banging noises, which could suggest several problems. Additionally, if the air coming from your AC smells musty or moldy, contact an expert to diagnose your unit.

Warm Air Blowing from the Vents

If your unit is blowing warm air or is hardly blowing air from the vents, it could imply a problem with the compressor or the refrigerant. A decrease in air pressure could also suggest clogged filters or vents that require cleaning.

Moisture Around Your AC Unit

Moisture around your AC unit or ductwork is an indication of a refrigerant leak. A refrigerant leak has the potential to cause health problems, so it’s important to have it repaired immediately rather than trying to recharge the unit yourself.

Identifying the signs of an ill-working air conditioner could save you money and headaches in the long run. It’s essential to call a professional HVAC expert to diagnose your system when you notice any of these signs to prevent further damage.

2. Potential Reasons Why Your AC Suddenly Stopped Cooling

AC units can break down unexpectedly, leaving you in a hot and uncomfortable environment. Understanding the reasons why your AC stopped cooling can help you identify the issue and take appropriate action. Here are some potential reasons why your AC has stopped cooling:

1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and reduce the cooling performance of your AC. Your AC may shut down to protect itself from overheating and causing further damage. A good rule of thumb is to replace your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage.

2. Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the air and cooling your home. Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC to work harder and longer to provide the same level of cooling. This can lead to a frozen evaporator coil, which can damage your AC if not addressed promptly.

3. Faulty Compressor: The compressor is the heart of your AC system and responsible for circulating refrigerant and cooling your home. A faulty compressor may cause your AC to stop cooling altogether. Signs of a faulty compressor include strange noises, high energy bills, and warm air coming from your AC.

4. Clogged Condensate Drain Line: Your AC removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. The condensate drain line carries this water outside. If the drain line becomes clogged, water can back up and cause your AC to stop cooling. Signs of a clogged drain line include water leaks and mold growth.

Understanding the potential reasons why your AC has stopped cooling can help you troubleshoot the issue and take the necessary actions. In the next section, we’ll share some troubleshooting tips to help you restart your AC.

3. Troubleshooting Tips to Restart Your AC

What To Do If AC Suddenly Stops Cooling

If your AC suddenly stops cooling, don’t panic. There are a few troubleshooting tips you can try before calling a professional. Here are some things to check:

1. Check the Thermostat: Sometimes, the thermostat settings can cause the AC to stop cooling. Make sure that the thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If it is not, adjust the settings accordingly.

2. Check the Air Filters: Air filters can get clogged over time and reduce the efficiency of your AC. Check the air filters and replace them if they are dirty. If you have reusable filters, wash and dry them before reinstalling.

3. Check the Outdoor Unit: Make sure that the outdoor unit is not blocked by any debris such as leaves or branches. This can affect the air flow and cause the AC to stop cooling. Clean the outdoor unit and remove any obstructions.

4. Check the Circuit Breaker: If the AC has tripped the circuit breaker, it will stop working. Check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. If it trips again, call a professional.

5. Check the Condensate Drain Line: The condensate drain line can clog with dirt and debris over time. This can cause the AC to stop cooling. Check the drain line and clear any blockages.

In conclusion, these are some of the troubleshooting tips you can try if your AC suddenly stops cooling. If none of these tips work, it may be time to call a professional. Remember that regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent future AC issues and save you money in the long run.

4. Should You Consider Repairing or Replacing Your AC?

After going through the troubleshooting tips, you might find out that your AC unit needs some repair work. But when does it make more sense to replace it altogether? Here are some factors that can help you make that decision:

Age of Your AC Unit

The average lifespan of an AC unit is between 10-15 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and climate conditions. If your AC unit is already past its prime, you might be better off replacing it instead of pouring money into repairs that won’t last long. Not only will a new AC unit be more efficient and reliable, but it will also come with a warranty that can save you money in the long run.

Frequency and Cost of Repairs

If your AC unit has been breaking down frequently, and you have already spent a considerable amount of money on repairs, then it might be time to cut your losses and invest in a new unit. As a rule of thumb, if the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of the cost of a new unit, then replacement makes more sense financially.

Energy Efficiency

If you have an older AC unit, it might not be as energy-efficient as newer models, which means you could be losing money on your energy bills every month. Upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model can save you money on your energy bills and be more environmentally friendly.

Environmental Considerations

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your HVAC system, then a newer model could be a more eco-friendly option. Look for AC units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, as they consume less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your AC unit comes down to your specific circumstances. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will save you money and improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.

5. Tips to Prevent Future AC Issues and Long-Term Maintenance

To ensure that your AC continues to work efficiently, you need to maintain it properly. Here are some tips that will help you prevent future AC issues and ensure long-term maintenance:

1. Regularly clean or replace air filters:

One of the main reasons why your AC may stop cooling is because of dirty filters. If your filters are blocked, air won’t circulate properly and your AC will consume more energy to cool your home. Therefore, it’s important to regularly clean or replace your air filters. This will not only increase the life of your AC but also save you money on your utility bills.

2. Keep your outdoor unit clean:

Dirty outdoor units can also result in inefficiency and higher energy consumption. Make sure that the outdoor unit of your AC is free from dirt, debris, and overgrown bushes. You can clean it up yourself with a water hose but make sure the unit is turned off before doing so.

3. Hire a professional for regular maintenance:

Regular maintenance by trained professionals can help prolong the life of your AC and improve its performance. An HVAC professional will be able to identify any potential issues early on and fix them before they cause major problems. Regular tune-ups can also ensure that your AC is running at optimal efficiency and energy-saving levels.

4. Invest in a smart thermostat:

Smart thermostats can help prevent future issues by adjusting your AC’s settings based on your daily routine and activity. This means that your AC won’t run harder than necessary, saving you energy and money.

5. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit:

If your AC is old and inefficient, it may be time to upgrade to a high-efficiency unit. They are designed to reduce energy consumption and lower your monthly utility bills. Plus, they come with the latest features and technology that can improve your home’s indoor air quality and comfort levels.

By following these tips, you can prevent future AC issues and ensure long-term maintenance. By properly maintaining your AC, you can save money on your energy bills, extend the life of your AC, and improve the performance of your unit.

People Also Ask

Why has my AC suddenly stopped cooling?

There can be various reasons behind your AC suddenly stopping cooling. The most common ones include a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, a faulty condenser coil, or a malfunctioning compressor.

What should I check if my AC is not cooling?

Before calling a technician, make sure to check the air filter, thermostat settings, and circuit breaker. You can also clean the AC unit and make sure there are no blockages around the outdoor unit.

How can I troubleshoot an AC that’s not cooling?

Troubleshooting an AC that’s not cooling includes checking the thermostat settings, cleaning or replacing the air filter, checking the refrigerant levels, and inspecting the condenser coils. You can also try restarting the unit or resetting the circuit breaker.

Is it safe to continue using the AC if it’s not cooling?

It’s not safe to continue using an AC that’s not cooling as it can lead to further damage and high energy bills. It can also contribute to poor indoor air quality and eventually affect your health.

When should I call a professional for help with my AC?

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t fix the issue, it’s best to call a professional to inspect and repair your AC. You should also seek professional help if there is moisture or leaking around the unit, strange noises or odors, or if the unit is more than ten years old.

Conclusion

If your AC suddenly stops cooling, don’t panic. Check the basic troubleshooting steps and attempt to fix the issue yourself. However, if the problem persists, it’s best to seek professional help. Regular maintenance and cleaning can also prevent unexpected breakdowns, keeping your AC in good shape for years to come.