When your AC not cooling house becomes more than just a minor annoyance, it’s time to take action. At Summers Comfort Heating & Cooling, we’ve helped countless homeowners figure out why their air conditioners suddenly stop doing their job. Sometimes it’s something simple, other times more serious. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you sort it out.
Before you panic or assume the worst, try checking a few common issues that could be behind the problem.
Start with the Thermostat Settings
You’d be surprised how often the issue is right at your fingertips. First, make sure your thermostat is set to “cool” and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes settings get changed by mistake—or during power outages.
Also, check if the fan is set to “on” or “auto.” If it’s on “auto,” the system will only run when cooling. “On” keeps air circulating but doesn’t mean your system is cooling it.
You can save as much as 10 % annually with a programmable thermostat by adjusting settings for when you’re away or asleep—according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Check the Air Filter
AC Not Cooling Your House? Dirty Filters Could Be to Blame
A clogged filter restricts airflow, which means less cool air reaches your home. Worse yet, your system has to work harder, which can lead to breakdowns or frozen coils.
We recommend checking your air filter monthly. If it looks dirty—or you can’t see light through it—replace it.
💡 Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of HVAC inefficiency. They’re also easy to fix.
Look at the Outdoor Unit
Is Your AC Not Cooling the House Because of Blocked Condenser Coils?
Your outside unit plays a huge role in cooling. If leaves, grass clippings, or dirt block the condenser coils, heat won’t release properly.
Here’s what you can do:
Turn off power to the system
Gently rinse the unit with a hose
Remove visible debris
Still not helping? The coils may need a deeper cleaning by a professional.
Check for Ice or Frost on the Unit
If you notice ice on the refrigerant lines or the outdoor unit, that’s not normal. Frozen coils can stop your system from cooling entirely. Causes may include low refrigerant, poor airflow, or mechanical issues.
Turn off the system and let it thaw. If ice returns after restarting, call a technician.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends addressing frozen coils quickly to avoid long-term damage.
Inspect Your Ductwork (If You Can)
Air ducts distribute cooled air throughout your home. But if they’re leaky, disconnected, or blocked, that cool air won’t get where it needs to go.
Some signs of duct issues:
Uneven temperatures in different rooms
Whistling or banging sounds from vents
Excessive dust around vents
Even if you can’t inspect ducts yourself, these clues can help guide a technician’s diagnosis.
Low Refrigerant Can Be a Silent Culprit
AC Not Cooling Your House? Low Refrigerant Is a Common Issue
Refrigerant absorbs heat from inside your home. If levels are low, your system will blow warm air—or none at all. But refrigerant doesn’t get “used up.” If it’s low, there’s likely a leak.
This is not a DIY fix. Leaks require professional repair and a recharge with the proper refrigerant.
Many modern systems now use more eco-friendly refrigerants, but safe handling is crucial. The EPA’s refrigerant safety guide outlines risks, proper handling, and environmental considerations
Electrical Problems Could Be the Root Cause
If your system won’t turn on at all, check the circuit breaker or the emergency shutoff switch near the outdoor unit. If a fuse has tripped or the disconnect is off, your AC won’t run.
Be cautious here—electrical issues can be dangerous. If you’re unsure, let a licensed HVAC technician handle it.
Still No Luck? Call a Professional
Sometimes it’s more than just a dirty filter or a flipped breaker. At Summers Comfort Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen cases where the compressor has failed, or the control board is malfunctioning. These types of problems require diagnostic tools and technical expertise.
If you’ve gone through the basics and your AC still isn’t cooling properly, it’s time to schedule a service call.
Prevent the Problem with Regular Maintenance
Twice-a-year maintenance is the best way to avoid cooling issues before they start. During a tune-up, we:
Inspect refrigerant levels
Clean coils and filters
Test electrical components
Check system performance
Preventative care helps keep your system running efficiently and extends its lifespan.
Explore our maintenance services to see how we keep systems running year-round.
Final Thoughts: AC Not Cooling Your House? Don’t Wait to Act
If your AC still has you sweating, don’t ignore it. Often, the fix is quick and simple. But even small problems can snowball into expensive repairs when left unchecked. Whether it’s a thermostat setting, a clogged filter, or something more complex, getting ahead of the issue saves time and stress.
At Summers Comfort Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help. We proudly serve Denham Springs, LA and the surrounding areas.
Schedule your AC inspection today — and stay cool all season long.
📞 Contact Summers Comfort Heating & Cooling for fast, honest service.
