Why My AC is Not Blowing Cold Air?

It is a nuisance when your air conditioner (AC) fails to generate cold air, particularly in humid, hot climates. Prior to attempting to analyze and resolve this matter, it is critical to ascertain the numerous elements that have contributed to it. We will discuss potential causes and solutions for malfunctioning air conditioners that fail to produce chilly air.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters are an essential element of every air conditioning system, since they play a crucial role in maintaining air quality and optimizing system efficiency. These filters can become obstructed over time due to the accumulation of airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Unclean or clogged filters impede the efficiency of air conditioning. Consequently, your air conditioner may not generate cold gusts of wind.

Here’s what you should do to fix the problem:

1. Locate the air filters: Check the return air duct or the area close to the air handler unit to find the air filters;
2. Turn off the AC: Before removing or cleaning the filters, turn off your AC system to ensure safety;
3. Remove the filters: Remove the filters by gently prying them out of their housing. Take careful note of their dimensions and material in case you ever need to replace them;
4. Clean or replace the filters: Filters should be washed (if they are reusable) or swapped out for brand new ones, depending on the type you have. Most reusable filters can be cleaned by either vacuuming them or washing them in the washing machine, as directed by the manufacturer;
5. Reinstall the filters: Once cleaned or replaced, securely reinstall the filters in their housing;
6. Turn on the AC: Finally, switch on the air conditioner again, and you should experience better airflow and colder air output.

Maintaining your air conditioner in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer is crucial to ensuring its optimal performance.

Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is what actually does the work of cooling the air. A decrease of cooling capacity can render your air conditioner inefficient if there is a refrigerant leak. A refrigerant leak can be detected by a lack of cold air, decreased cooling performance, and even a hissing sound coming from the vicinity of the air conditioner. Addressing refrigerant leaks requires professional skills, as handling refrigerants is regulated and possibly harmful. This is what you need to do:

1. Turn off the AC: Stop using the air conditioner immediately if you detect a refrigerant leak, as doing so will avoid further damage to the system;
2. Contact an HVAC professional: Get in touch with an HVAC expert who can identify and fix the refrigerant leak. They will use cutting-edge technology to locate and repair the leak, guaranteeing optimal performance of your AC system;
3. Refill the refrigerant: After the leak has been fixed, the expert will replenish the refrigerant to the proper amounts, guaranteeing that your air conditioner can once again properly produce chilly air.

If refrigerant leaks are not addressed, they can cause more serious problems and lead to higher energy costs.

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is the nerve center of your air conditioning system, allowing you to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home at all times. Inadequate cooling and unpleasantness can result from its malfunction. The AC blowing air that is too warm or too cold, unpredictable temperature swings, or an inability to maintain the specified temperature are all indications of a broken thermostat.

If you’re having problems with your thermostat, try these solutions.

1. Check the thermostat settings: Thermostat settings should be checked. Make sure the thermostat is adjusted to the appropriate level of coolness and the desired temperature. Inadequate cooling can occur on occasion due to unintentional modifications or programming faults;
2. Calibrate the thermostat: If you suspect temperature errors, you can attempt to calibrate the thermostat following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Resetting the thermostat is a common practice for this purpose;
3. Replace the thermostat: If your thermostat is old, broken, or can’t keep your home at a comfortable temperature, you should consider replacing it with a modern, programmable model. The accuracy and convenience of modern thermostats are unmatched;
4. Professional inspection: If you’re concerned about the thermostat’s performance or if issues linger after calibration or replacement, speak with an HVAC professional to diagnose and repair any underlying problems.

Comfortable temperatures inside require a thermostat that is working properly, thus fixing any problems with the thermostat as soon as possible is critical.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils that freeze up can cause your air conditioner to cease working at all. When the coils freeze, ventilation is restricted, heat exchange is impeded, and cooling efficiency decreases. There could be a decrease in airflow from the vents and ice formation on the coils.

To address frozen evaporator coils, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the AC: Immediately turn off your AC unit if you observe frost on the evaporator coils. The compressor and other parts can be damaged if the air conditioner is left on for too long;
2. Allow the coils to thaw: Turn off the air conditioner and let it sit for a while to let the coils defrost. The process can be sped up by using a fan to blow hot air over the coils;
3. Check for airflow restrictions: After the coils have thawed, check the air filters, ducts, and vents to make sure there are no obstructions blocking the free flow of air;
4. Contact a technician: Get in touch with an expert: A professional HVAC specialist should be called in for a full inspection and repair if the freezing problem persists after thawing or if you suspect a more serious problem, such as a refrigerant issue or a malfunctioning blower fan.

There are a number of potential causes for frozen evaporator coils, and fixing them as soon as possible is crucial to preventing further damage to your air conditioner.

Blocked or Leaky Ducts

The ductwork in your home is essential for delivering the cooled air from the air conditioner to different rooms. When there are holes or obstructions in the ducts, the air conditioner’s ability to chill the space and provide cool air is compromised. Uneven cooling, overly warm rooms, and hissing sounds coming from the ducts are all indicators of ductwork problems.

To address blocked or leaky ducts, consider the following steps:

1. Visual inspection: First, take a look at the ducting that is currently on display in your home. Check for any obvious cracks, holes, or obstructions. Consider the possibility that some ducts may be broken or disconnected;
2. Seal duct leaks: If you find a leak in your ductwork, seal it with duct sealing tape or mastic sealant. Seal the ducts so that conditioned air doesn’t leak into the attic or other unconditioned areas;
3. Unblock ducts: Remove any dirt or dust that has settled inside the ducts in order to resume normal airflow;
4. Professional duct cleaning and inspection: If you have an older HVAC system or suspect widespread duct concerns, it may be time to schedule a professional cleaning and inspection. Your ductwork can be cleaned and repaired as needed by trained professionals who can also inspect it carefully.

If you want your air conditioner to work properly, you need to keep the ducts in your home sealed and free of debris.

Dirty Condenser Coils

To get rid of the heat from the refrigerant, the condenser coils in the outside unit of your air conditioner are essential. The efficiency with which these coils transfer heat declines with time as they collect dust, leaves, and other debris. Your AC might not be able to keep up with the heat today.

Here’s what you should do if your condenser coils are dirty:

1. Turn off the power: If frost forms on the evaporator coils, you must turn off the air conditioner immediately. Too much time with the air conditioner on might wear out the compressor and other components;
2. Remove debris: Carefully sweep the exterior of the unit free of any leaves, dirt, or other debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the fins and coils;
3. Cleaning the coils: If the condenser coils are very dirty, you can use a coil cleaner made for this purpose to get rid of the grime. Always use the product in accordance with the directions provided by the manufacturer;
4. Check for bent fins: Examine the aluminum fins on the condenser coils for bending or other damage. Straightening out bent fins with a fin comb can boost airflow and cooling efficiency;
5. Reassemble and turn on the power: After cleaning and examining the condenser unit, it is time to put everything back together and reconnect the electricity.

If you want your air conditioner to work efficiently and produce cold air, you should clean the condenser coils on a regular basis, especially before the cooling season begins.

Oversized or Undersized AC Unit

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is directly proportional to its capacity to chill the room. A poorly sized air conditioner will not cool your home efficiently and can make you quite uncomfortable. A unit that is too large for the space may not remove enough moisture from the air, while a unit that is too small may have trouble keeping the room at the correct temperature.

To address issues related to AC unit sizing, consider the following steps:

1. Consult an HVAC professional: Talk to a qualified HVAC technician: A load calculation for your home should be performed by a licensed HVAC professional. This estimate considers the size of your home, its insulation, the weather where you live, and the number of people who live there. The data will let the technician determine what size air conditioner is needed;
2. Replace or upgrade the AC unit: If your existing air conditioner is excessively large or small, it may be time to update to a more suitable model. A properly sized air conditioner will effectively chill your home and keep you comfortable all year long;
3. Ductwork evaluation: Sometimes, an HVAC specialist will also inspect and evaluate the ductwork in your home. Properly designed ducts are vital for ensuring that cooled air is circulated uniformly throughout your home.

The level of comfort and cost savings can be dramatically improved by installing an appropriately sized air conditioning unit. The best unit for your needs can be chosen with the help of a specialist.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent ‘My AC Not Blowing Cold Air’

Regular repair is needed to keep problems like the air conditioner not blowing cold air from happening. After some easy repair, your air conditioner will work well all summer long as long as you follow these tips. How to maintain a fully functional air conditioner:

Routine Cleaning

Filters that are unclean or clogged are a common cause of air conditioning units failing to produce cold air. Maintaining clean air conditioning filters, coils, and ductwork is mandatory. Over time, dust and other debris can collect, obstructing airflow and lowering the system’s effectiveness. By cleaning these components, you may enhance air circulation and prevent your AC from overworking, which sometimes leads to difficulties like not blowing cold air.

Scheduled Inspections

A professional inspection once a year is a must. These checks can detect issues before they stop delivering cool air from your AC. The condition of your air conditioner’s components, including the refrigerant levels and electrical connections, can be verified by a trained technician. Maintaining the efficiency of your air conditioner requires regular checks from a trained technician, who can spot problems before they become major.

Proper Usage

The efficiency and useful life of your air conditioner may depend on how you use it. It’s crucial to use your air conditioner correctly to keep it from failing to produce cool air. Some examples are:

• Thermostat Settings: Adjusting the thermostat properly helps lessen the workload on your air conditioner. Setting the thermostat at a moderate temperature prevents overworking the device;
• Avoiding Overuse: Too much use can break your air conditioner and stop providing chilly air. Turn off the AC occasionally, especially in mild weather;
• Closing Doors and Windows: The efficiency of an air conditioner can be maximized by closing all doors and windows when it is in use. This will keep the cool air in and lessen the strain on your air conditioner.

Conclusion

Having to deal with a broken air conditioner is no easy task. You’ll be more equipped to deal with this issue if you take the time to investigate its possible causes and potential remedies. If you want your air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable all the time, regular maintenance and prompt professional help are essential.

FAQ

Why is my AC running but not blowing cold air?

The most common reasons include dirty air filters, refrigerant leaks, or faulty thermostats.

Can I fix my AC not blowing cold air myself?

Simple issues like dirty filters can be handled personally, but complex problems require professional assistance.

How often should I service my AC to avoid it not blowing cold air?

Annual servicing is recommended to prevent issues like your AC unit not blowing cold air.

What is the cost of fixing an AC not blowing cold air?

Cost varies depending on the issue. Simple fixes are less costly, while major repairs like fixing a refrigerant leak can be more expensive.

The post Understanding AC Units That Refuse to Blow Cold Air appeared first on ComfortPro.

Why waterproofing is necessary

The most visible consequences of leaks are damp finishings or furniture, but the most dangerous are those that are hard to see at once: internal damage to the main structures of the house. Wood suffers most of all from dampness, but water does not add longevity to bricks and even reinforced concrete, especially if the damp material freezes hard in winter. Wet insulation loses its thermal insulating properties just like clothes in the rain. Steel fasteners and pipes in damp walls quickly rust and fall into disrepair. Waterproofing is necessary wherever there is direct contact with water and humidity is known to be higher than normal: in the underground part of the building (foundation and basement), under the roof, in the bathroom and kitchen.

House foundation

The foundation of a house is exposed to water attacks from all sides: groundwater, waterlogging. The concrete itself, from which foundations are made, actively absorbs moisture if it is not protected. Therefore, we will neutralize the harmful effects of water both from the outside and from the inside. Leaks in the basement of a private house – usually a consequence of damage or aging waterproofing. Small violations, for example, in the entry points of pipes and cables, are eliminated with the help of repair mixtures based on water-stopping cement – such seals harden in just a minute and stop even a strong leak.

Basements need internal waterproofing, because groundwater gradually fills the porous structure of concrete, and in winter crystallize and rupture it from the inside. Deep penetration waterproofing (impregnation) will help here: these are special solutions that “glue” all microcracks and cavities of brick or concrete. Such waterproofing, if the instructions are followed precisely, can be done by yourself.

Permanent or seasonal waterlogging – due to snow melt or after heavy rains – will require major repairs to the foundation and the device of anti-pressure waterproofing. It is necessary to cover the foundation with roll materials that work “on the pressure” – water only increases the tightness of their adherence to the underground part of the house. Previously for this purpose used roofing felt, now – plastic films.

On top of the impregnation it is desirable to apply paint waterproofing – cover the wall with polymer paints or varnishes in several layers. This is both decoration and reliable protection, and it is quite budget-friendly. Paint insulation of concrete is even used on underwater structures and bridge piles.

Insulate the bathroom and bathtub

If you live in a high-rise building on the upper floors, the most “wet” part of your apartment – the bathroom or toilet – requires special attention. In an hour or two it is easy to flood all the neighbors below. Protect both the floor and the walls. Most often used sheathing waterproofing: walls and screed are covered with polymer resins or bitumen-polymer (bitumen-kauchukovyh) mastics.

“Pay special attention to the corners and joints of walls and floors – in such places mastic can lie unevenly and over time crack. “

Before applying the mastic, the concrete should be treated with a primer that improves the adhesion of the coating with the base. Pay special attention to the corners and joints of walls and floors – in such places mastic can lie unevenly and over time crack, so for reliability glue polymer tapes. A variation of sheathing waterproofing – treatment of walls and floors with cement or polymer-cement mixtures. Work with them is not more difficult than with ordinary plaster and putty.

Before applying cement waterproofing, the joints of walls and floors should be rounded with putty to reduce the consumption of the mixture and the risk of cracks. Cement waterproofing requires additional protection from mechanical and chemical damage, so it should be painted, plastered or covered with tiles. To protect the joints on the floor and walls from leaks and mold development, carefully caulk them. For tiles, use grout, for plastic panels – sealant.

Prepare the kitchen floor

On the walls of the kitchen moisture gets mainly in the working area, so it is enough “apron” of tiles or panels. But the waterproofing of the floor should be given attention. The techniques and materials are the same as for the bathroom. But be sure to clarify whether the manufacturer recommends using specific building materials for the kitchen. This room has special requirements for environmental friendliness and compliance with sanitary and hygienic norms.

The post Say NO to Water: Waterproofing Your Home from Foundation to Kitchen appeared first on ComfortPro.

The modern market offers consumers a huge number of different models and varieties of sanitary ware. It is worth going into a showroom or on the Internet site, and the eyes run away from the abundance of assortment. The question arises: how to unmistakably choose the ideal option for a particular room and user?

That is why we have prepared an overview of the types of bathroom fixtures, as well as advice on the choice from leading experts of the firm. Simple recommendations will help to orient yourself, correctly select the optimal models from those available on sale.

The basic rules when planning the interior and the choice of bathroom fixtures in the bathroom

There is one rule that requires strict observance: before you buy materials and equipment for repair, you need to make a plan. This applies to both spacious and tiny rooms. Otherwise, there is a great risk not to guess with the dimensions, to make offensive, ridiculous mistakes.

In a particularly careful approach need a small bathroom, combined bathrooms, which must accommodate all the necessary equipment, including cabinets and washing machine. About what sanitary ware to choose for the bath, think after taking measurements and drawing up a plan of communication outlets: water and sewage, heating pipes, outlets and wires for lamps, ventilation.

Specialists recommend in the planning process to be guided by several principles

• The number and composition of items of plumbing, equipment, lockers is determined by the following factors: the dimensions of the room, the number of users, practical necessity. If the family is not accepted to use a bidet, then it will waste space. The same can be said about the bath: many people prefer to take a shower, and on weekends wash in a bath or sauna.
• If the area of the room is limited, choose compact models, install a shower partition instead of a more massive cabin or a full-fledged bathtub. In addition, some of the equipment and cabinets are placed on the walls, racks, special fixtures.
• Be sure to draw a scale plan, with the location and size of the plumbing. Mark items with opening elements: the hatch of the washing machine, inspection hatches, doors of lockers and showers, the entrance door, if it opens inward, the toilet lid. They must not encounter any obstacles in their path, or rest against neighboring objects or the wall.

• All items and furnishings installed in the bathroom should be combined, harmoniously complement each other. It is best to buy a set of bathroom fixtures from the same manufacturer, in a uniform design. In addition, the type and colors of wall and floor coverings are important.
• Faucets and showerheads are chosen in the same style for sinks, bidets and bathtubs. The most popular are chrome-plated metal models. Brass, bronze products in modern or retro style are purchased less often.
• Towel dryers, soap dispensers, a variety of auxiliary metal elements should also echo the design of the main environment.
• The quality of products – one of the main parameters. Good sanitary ware functions flawlessly for ten or more years. Replacement requires only consumables, gaskets, moving parts.
• Do not forget about the mirror. Usually it is placed above the sink. But, there are also unusual interior solutions. For illumination, a pair of sconces, spotlights or spotlights are installed.

If the owners of the property plan to install a bathtub, toilet bowl in another place, not provided by the original layout, it is necessary to consult with a competent master. He will tell exactly whether it is possible to realize this solution under the given conditions.

Bathroom fixtures

Thinking about how to choose bathroom fixtures, it is necessary to decide on the materials from which they are made. Experts advise to complete the bathroom with products made of the same raw materials, the same colors, with the inclusion of additional materials.

So, for example, a faience set of sanitary ware is supplemented with cabinets made of MDF, wood, glass partitions, metal supports and legs.

• Faience (sanitary ware) is made from a special type of clay and fired in ovens. Products are covered with a thick layer of smooth, waterproof glaze with various pigments that determine the coloring. It is one of the most affordable materials, with excellent resistance to household chemicals, temperature fluctuations, and water. However, over time, the glaze begins to wear off, and porous clay readily absorbs moisture, reducing the strength of the sanitary ware. In addition, the products are sensitive to mechanical influences, shocks. The average service life is 15 years.
• Porcelain (sanitary ware) is characterized by greater durability, resistance and higher prices. Externally, it is difficult to distinguish it from earthenware, but the performance characteristics are much higher. The easiest way to distinguish porcelain from earthenware is by weight. Porcelain products are heavier with the same dimensions. Produce such sanitary ware from white clay, with the addition of feldspar and quartz, firing in high-temperature furnaces. On top they are covered with a durable layer of glaze of various colors. They are undemanding in care, easy to clean from dirt and are not subject to corrosion. On them do not live fungi, bacteria. But, from strong blows appear chips, cracks.
• Marble, granite, other types of natural stone. Luxurious material with a characteristic pattern, a wide variety of shades. Gives the room a noble look, a sense of respectability and wealth. Durable material with a huge margin of safety. However, due to its porous structure, it requires delicate, careful care.
• Quartz agglomerate, artificial stone and other types of composite materials are characterized by high strength and durability. They are distinguished by an exquisite glossy shine, resistance to a variety of household chemicals, temperature fluctuations. They are not afraid of mechanical shocks and undemanding in cleaning. The only disadvantage is the high cost.
• Durable, tempered glass is increasingly used for the manufacture of sinks, additional elements – partitions, tables, counters. In terms of durability, such products are not inferior to traditional earthenware and porcelain, and they do not absorb moisture at all. This is an optimal solution for small rooms, as it makes the equipment invisible, reduces the feeling of a cluttered room. It adds light and air to the space. Glass requires careful care, wiping dry, as its surface clearly shows any stains, traces of hands, water drops.
• Cast iron, bronze and other types of metals are traditionally used to decorate the bathroom in a retro style. But, there are author’s designs in modern styles – high-tech, minimalism, art deco. Such sanitary ware is characterized by high strength, durability. It is easy to wash it from dirt, it is not afraid of even strong blows.
• Wooden sinks with special treatment are exclusive, expensive products. They are ecological, look unusual, perfectly complement rustic and eco-styles.
• Plastic bathtubs and shower trays are practical, cheap and undemanding in care. They are made of acrylic, with the addition of various pigments. Also, plastic is used to make hatches, curtains and transparent partitions, sliding doors. But, there are disadvantages – low resistance to scratches, low strength.

It is acceptable to combine different types of materials with each other: cast iron bathtub with metal legs, marble sink and toilet. Or acrylic Jacuzzi cover in combination with faience sanitary ware and glass shower stall.

Choosing a sink for the bathroom

• The size of the sink depends on the area of the room. Buy a chic, oversized model in a tiny combined bathroom – a wrong decision. For such a bathroom, corner, suspended and recessed models with a length of up to 35 cm are suitable. Spacious rooms can be equipped with a double sink or an elongated model with a width of 80 cm or more. Standard models are considered to be 50-60 cm long and 40 cm wide.
• Several types of products are produced according to the method of attachment: tulip, wall, shaped, cascading. Built-in are installed together with a cabinet, console or drawer. Each class has its own features of the location of the hole for the faucet, dimensions, configuration. Some models provide for wall or table mounting of the mixer, and are completely devoid of other holes, except for the drain. Therefore, the type of mixer should be matched to the already selected washbasin.
• If the sink has a special hole that protects against water overflow, then it must be connected to the sewer through a separate pipe and siphon.
• In shape, the product can be round-oval, rectangular, round, angular. Design models of complex configuration are increasingly common.

When space is tight, a small wall-hung washbasin is installed over a front-loading washing machine, or over a toilet, bidet.

• If there are small children in the house, elderly relatives, it is worth paying attention to baths with built-in handrails on the sides. It is convenient to hold on to them, reducing the risk of injury.
• The faucet is installed either in one of the ends or on the side wall, depending on the location of the exit points of communications. Less often, in the case of installing the bathtub at a distance from the walls, use a variant with the exit of water pipes from the floor.
• To splashes do not fly to the sides, experts recommend a graceful solution – a movable or stationary partition made of glass or plastic.

Shower cabin in the bathroom

• Box or shower cabin of the closed type is completely ready for use. It is installed in the chosen location, connected to communications and power supply if necessary. Factories offer a wide range of sizes, from modest, single, to giants with dimensions of more than 200 cm in length. There are built-in functions – music, hydromassage, folding chairs, aromatherapy, steam generator and even a Turkish bath. If the product is equipped with a deep tray, then you can take a bath in it.
• An open cubicle is a partition made of glass or polymer. Inside, the floor is tiled with a slope to the drain, or a tray is placed. A mixer and a shower are fixed on the wall. This design is cheaper and more practical, more durable. However, it should be designed at the stage of roughing-up and laying communications.

Most often shower cabins are installed in niches, narrow partitions, corners. They allow you to significantly save space.

The choice of bathroom fixtures is based on a number of practical and aesthetic considerations. An important role is played not only by color or type of material, but also by comfort and reliability.
Experts recommend trusting the experience and qualifications of design engineers of the world’s leading sanitary ware manufacturers. Models produced by trusted brands are characterized by durability and flawless operation of all systems. And their magnificent, thoughtful design makes only a positive impression.

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