Your Fresno A/C system cools your home in much the same way a refrigerator keeps your food cool and fresh, but removing unwanted heat energy. This requires free airflow and all A/C components to be well-maintained and working in sync. If your A/C is blowing hot air and it’s spoiling your comfort, give these troubleshooting tips a try.
Dirty Components
Your A/C system needs unrestricted airflow at the indoor air handler and at the outside unit. When dirt, debris and grime block airflow to essential components, your A/C is going to blow hot air. Wash the outdoor unit, which contains the condenser and the compressor. Use a can of foaming coil cleaner and spray the sides of the unit. Let it soak for 15 minutes and rinse clean with a water hose.
Evaporator Coil
The indoor air handler houses the evaporator that extracts heat from your home. Like the condenser, if the evaporator is caked with dirt and grime, it’s not going to be able to cool your home. Mold and algae growth on the coil are an issue, too.
Additionally, when airflow is blocked to the evaporator, ice forms on the coil. This further blocks airflow and it soon snowballs out of control. Check the coil for ice and debris. Let the ice melt, and then clean the coil. If the ice returns, call your HVAC technician.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the evaporator, which may also cause ice accumulation. Make sure you change the filter when it’s dirty, or as suggested by the manufacturer.
Mechanical or Electrical Problems
A/C electrical problems are often identified as unusual noises at the outside unit. Rapid clicking indicates a faulty relay, so the A/C can’t receive the signal to cool from the thermostat. Buzzing or humming indicate a blown capacitor. Both components are located in the electrical compartment of the cabinet. It’s best to call your HVAC tech to have the problem fixed.
If your Fresno A/C is blowing hot air after trying these troubleshooting tips, contact Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning for assistance.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/Cs and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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