In Southwest Florida, where heat and humidity are part of life for most of the year, homeowners depend on air conditioning for more than comfort. In addition to keeping your home cool, your AC system also helps control indoor humidity. That makes consistent cooling especially important when outdoor temperatures climb.
When an AC system stops cooling during extreme heat, indoor conditions quickly become uncomfortable for all family members. Continuing to run a struggling system can also place additional stress on its components and potentially lead to major issues.
Fortunately, a lack of cooling does not always mean the entire system has failed. In this post, we explore several possible causes, explain what you can safely check before calling for AC repair and help you recognize when it is time to bring in a professional.
Is Your AC Cooling?
As basic as this sounds, this is the sensible place to start. Here’s how to determine whether your air conditioner has stopped producing cool air altogether or is simply struggling to keep up with extreme outdoor temperatures.
Safely place your hand near one of the supply vents.
Does the air feel noticeably cooler than the room? If so, your AC is still producing cool air, although it may be challenged with the demand created by the extreme heat outside. In this case, it may run almost continuously without reaching the thermostat setting as quickly as expected.
On the other hand, if the air feels warm, the airflow is weak, or you notice the system is frequently starting and stopping, you are most likely facing an issue.
If your AC is not blowing cold air, follow these steps below.
Confirm The Thermostat Settings
On your thermostat, doublecheck:
- Is it set to “Cool”?
- Is it set below the current indoor temperature?
- Make sure the Fan is set to “AUTO”.
- If your model requires batteries, replace them.
- For smart thermostats, check to see if the schedule/temperature setting changed accidentally.
If your thermostat display remains blank after replacing the batteries, the culprit could point to a power issue, blown fuse, tripped float switch, or equipment problem. This is an indication to call us for AC repair.
PRO TIP: Avoid repeatedly lowering the temperature setting in hopes of cooling the house faster. Setting the thermostat to 65 degrees will not produce cold air more quickly. It only tells the system to keep running until it reaches that temperature.
Instead, keep the thermostat at a reasonable, comfortable temperature, around 78 degrees.
Inspect The Air Filter
Air filters can clog quickly, especially during heavy summer use. A dirty air filter restricts air flow and if left unchecked, can contribute to other issues.
What to do:
- Remove the filter. Chances are it needs to be replaced. Insert a new filter that is the correct size and type for your system. Filters should be replaced monthly, especially as a full-time resident in Southwest Florida.
- Schedule routine AC maintenance with us. Our technicians will inspect and clean your unit, and identify any developing issues, before they lead to a surprise breakdown.
Check the Vents
Make sure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Furniture, rugs, curtains, boxes and closed registers can prevent the system from moving air effectively.
Evaluate the Outdoor Unit
Take a moment to observe your outdoor unit safely.
- Is the outdoor fan spinning? If you notice the indoor system is running while the outdoor unit is not, or hear unusual sounds, turn the system off and call us for AC service.
- Clear away loose leaves and debris surrounding the outdoor unit. Leave any cleaning, adjustments or work inside the cabinet to a professional.
Look for Ice or a Tripped Breaker
Look for these warning signs below to help explain why an AC has stopped working.
Signs of a Frozen AC System
A frozen AC coil may sound impossible during a Florida heat wave; however, this is a real thing. If airflow is restricted or refrigerant levels are low, the indoor coil can freeze even in the heat.
A frozen coil can contribute to:
- Weak air coming from vents
- AC running but not cooling the house
- Ice on refrigerant lines
- Water dripping after the ice melts
If you notice any of the above, call us right away.
Check the Breaker
A tripped breaker may interrupt power to your unit. If you are comfortable doing so, on your electrical panel, flip the breaker to “Off” and then back to “On” one time only. If it trips again, leave it off and call us.
PRO TIP: Repeatedly resetting a breaker can be dangerous. Do not remove equipment panels or attempt to handle HVAC wiring yourself.
Know When to Call an AC Professional
Call us if your AC system:
- is not blowing cold air
- is not turning on
- repeatedly trips a breaker
- develops ice
- leaks water
- produces a burning odor
- makes odd sounds
We see these symptoms every day. And what we find is they require proper diagnostic equipment from trained HVAC technicians like Sunset Air.
An Ounce of Prevention is Key
Remember the saying – An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Follow these tips to maintain a healthy AC unit.
• Change filters every 30–60 days (more in summer)
• Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear
• Schedule maintenance twice a year
• Don’t ignore odd noises or weak airflow
• Troubleshoot AC issues immediately
In addition, close blinds and curtains during the heat of the day; avoid using heat-producing appliances; and turn on ceiling fans, counterclockwise.
Contact Us
If you’ve performed these AC troubleshooting steps, and continue to have issues, it is time to call us. We service all of Southwest Florida, providing live support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
As an employee-owned company, our team is personally invested in delivering dependable service and honest recommendations you can trust. Contact us today to keep your HVAC system operating at its best.
