My AC Isn't Cooling. What Can I Check First?
Check the thermostat setting, the breaker and outdoor disconnect, the filter, and whether the outdoor unit is running and clear. If there's ice on the lines or water around the indoor unit, switch off and request a technician.
Request an HVAC technicianThermostat
Set to cool, a few degrees below the room, fan on Auto. Replace batteries if the screen is blank.
Power
Check the breaker in the panel and the disconnect beside the outdoor unit. A tripped breaker that trips again needs a technician.
Filter
A clogged filter cuts airflow and can freeze the coil. Replace it and see if cooling improves after an hour.
Outdoor unit
Is the fan spinning? Is the unit buried in grass or debris? A hum with no fan often means a failed capacitor.
Ice
Ice on the copper lines or indoor coil means switch off and let it thaw. Don't chip at it.
Still warm?
Send a request with what you found. See AC repair.
Is it the heat?
On the hottest, most humid afternoons a system may only keep the house 18 to 20 degrees below outdoors. If it was keeping up until recently and isn't now, something has changed and it's worth a visit from a technician.
Before the technician arrives
Leave the system off if it's frozen, clear a path to the indoor and outdoor units, and note any error codes on the thermostat.
Closed vents
Closing vents in unused rooms doesn't save much and can upset airflow. Keep most vents open and returns clear of furniture.
Dirty outdoor coil
Pollen, dust and grass clippings coat the coil fins and stop it shedding heat. With power off at the disconnect, rinse it gently from the inside out.
More HVAC guides
Need AC or heating help in Lake Charles?
Send a request and a HVAC technician will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
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