AC Blowing Warm Air?
Your AC is running but not cooling. Here's how to diagnose the problem and know when you need professional help.
💡 Quick Stat: The #1 cause of AC blowing warm air is a dirty air filter restricting airflow.
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18+ Years
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Since 2008
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Starting at $45/mo
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Check These First (DIY)
Before calling for service, try these quick troubleshooting steps.
Check thermostat settings
Verify it's set to COOL (not heat or fan only) and temperature is set BELOW current room temp.
Check and replace air filter
A clogged filter restricts airflow and can make AC blow warm. This is the #1 cause.
Check outdoor unit
Make sure outdoor unit is running. Clear any debris, leaves, or plants blocking airflow.
Check vents and registers
Ensure all supply vents are open and not blocked by furniture or curtains.
Look at outdoor unit's copper lines
If the larger copper pipe is covered in ice, you have a refrigerant or airflow problem.
Tried everything above and still having issues?
Our technicians can diagnose the problem in about 30 minutes.
Schedule Service: (704) 821-3632Common Causes & Repair Costs
What might be wrong and what it typically costs to fix.
| Cause | Likelihood | Cost | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|
Dirty Air Filter Restricted airflow causes poor cooling. Replace every 1-3 months. | Very Common | $5-$30 | ✓ Yes |
Thermostat Set Wrong Set to heat, fan only, or temperature too high. | Very Common | Free | ✓ Yes |
Low Refrigerant Refrigerant leak reduces cooling capacity. Requires professional repair. | Common | $200-$800 | Pro |
Frozen Evaporator Coil Ice on coil blocks airflow. Usually caused by low refrigerant or dirty filter. | Common | $100-$400 | Pro |
Dirty Condenser Coils Outdoor coils caked with dirt can't release heat effectively. | Moderate | $100-$200 | Pro |
Compressor Issue Failing compressor can't compress refrigerant properly. | Less Common | $1,500-$3,500 | Pro |
Ductwork Leak Cool air escaping through duct holes or disconnections. | Moderate | $200-$600 | Pro |
Dirty Air Filter
DIYRestricted airflow causes poor cooling. Replace every 1-3 months.
Thermostat Set Wrong
DIYSet to heat, fan only, or temperature too high.
Low Refrigerant
ProRefrigerant leak reduces cooling capacity. Requires professional repair.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
ProIce on coil blocks airflow. Usually caused by low refrigerant or dirty filter.
Dirty Condenser Coils
ProOutdoor coils caked with dirt can't release heat effectively.
Compressor Issue
ProFailing compressor can't compress refrigerant properly.
Ductwork Leak
ProCool air escaping through duct holes or disconnections.
Diagnose by Symptom
Describe what you're experiencing to narrow down the cause.
"Air feels slightly cool but not cold"
Likely cause: Low refrigerant, dirty filter, or dirty coils.
"Air is room temperature—not cool at all"
Likely cause: Compressor not running, severe refrigerant loss, or thermostat issue.
"Ice visible on the refrigerant lines or indoor unit"
Likely cause: Low refrigerant or severely restricted airflow (dirty filter/coil).
"AC worked fine until a very hot day"
Likely cause: System undersized for extreme heat, or struggling with dirty coils/low refrigerant.
Our Repair Pricing
Upfront, honest pricing. No surprises.
$89
Diagnostic Fee
Waived with repair
$200-$800
Most Repairs
20-45 minutes
Response Time
30-50%
Less Than Big Co's
* Prices shown are typical ranges. Final price depends on specific diagnosis.
Serving the Charlotte Metro Area
Same-day emergency service available • Response in 20-45 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my AC running but not cooling the house?
The most common cause is a dirty air filter—check that first. Other causes include low refrigerant ($200-$800 to fix), frozen coils, or thermostat issues. If changing the filter doesn't help within a few hours, call for professional diagnosis.
Why is my AC blowing warm air suddenly?
Sudden warm air usually indicates: refrigerant leak, frozen evaporator coil, or outdoor unit failure. Check if your outdoor unit is running—if it's silent, you may have a capacitor or compressor issue. If you see ice on the lines, turn the system OFF and call a technician.
How much does it cost to fix an AC blowing warm air?
Costs vary by cause. Filter replacement: $5-$30 (DIY). Refrigerant recharge: $200-$800. Frozen coil repair: $100-$400. Most repairs fall in the $200-$800 range. We charge $89 for diagnosis, waived with repair.
Can I fix my AC blowing warm air myself?
You can fix: dirty filter (replace it), thermostat settings, and clearing debris from outdoor unit. You cannot fix: refrigerant issues, frozen coils (beyond turning system off), compressor problems, or electrical issues. These require professional tools and EPA certification.
My AC has ice on it. What should I do?
Turn the AC OFF immediately. Run the fan only (set thermostat to FAN ON) to help melt the ice. Do not try to chip ice off—you'll damage the coils. Ice indicates low refrigerant or airflow problems. Call a technician once the ice melts.
Related Troubleshooting Guides
AC Still Blowing Warm?
We'll find the problem and fix it. $89 diagnostic (waived with repair). Same-day service.
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