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Why Is My Air Conditioner Blowing Warm Air? Troubleshooting Checklist & When to Call an Expert

Mature man taking out a dirty air filter from a home ceiling air return vent. Male removing a dirty air filter with both hands in a house from a HVAC ceiling air vent.

Is your AC blowing warm air instead of cooling your Orlando home? In Florida’s heat, that’s a problem you can’t ignore.

Sometimes, the fix is simple; other times, you’ll need a professional. Here’s a quick checklist to help you troubleshoot and know when to call United Air Temp.

Possible Reasons Why Your AC Blows Warm Air

If your air conditioner blows warm air instead of cool, there’s usually a reason. Here are a few possible causes.

Thermostat Is Set Incorrectly

It might seem obvious but double-check your thermostat. Someone could’ve accidentally switched it to “heat” or raised the temperature so high that the AC won’t turn on. Ensure it’s set to “cool” and the fan to “auto.”

Dirty Air Filter

A clogged air filter blocks airflow and can make your system work harder than it should. That strain can cause poor cooling and lead to warm air coming through your vents.

Refrigerant Is Low or Leaking

Your AC needs refrigerant to absorb heat and cool your home. If levels are low due to a leak or other issue, your system won’t be able to cool properly and may push warm air.

Electrical or Circuit Breaker Issues

If the indoor unit is running but the outdoor unit isn’t, there could be an issue with a tripped breaker or blown fuse. Without both parts working together, you’ll feel warm air.

Dirty or Blocked Outdoor Unit

When your outdoor unit is covered in debris or dirt, it can’t properly release heat. That backup causes your AC to blow warm air into your home instead of cool air.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Yes, frozen coils can stop your system from cooling. When airflow is restricted or refrigerant is low, moisture on the coils can freeze up and block the cooling process altogether.

Should I Turn Off My AC If It’s Blowing Warm Air?

If your AC is blowing warm air, it’s smart to turn it off. Running it while something’s wrong can worsen the issue and lead to more expensive repairs.

Here’s what could happen:

  • Overheating the compressor, which can lead to system failure
  • Frozen coils that worsen airflow problems
  • Increased wear and tear on internal parts
  • Higher energy bills with no cooling benefits
  • Refrigerant leaks that pose safety and environmental risks

How to Troubleshoot an AC That Blows Warm Air

Before calling for help, you can check a few quick things on your own. These simple steps might solve the problem or give you an idea of what’s going wrong.

Check the Thermostat Settings

Ensure your thermostat is set to “cool” and not “heat” or “fan.” It should also be set several degrees below the current room temperature.

Replace the Air Filter

If the filter looks dirty or clogged, replace it. A clean filter helps your system breathe and keeps air flowing properly.

Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Look for dirt, leaves, or debris around your outside AC unit. Clear away anything blocking it, and make sure the fan is spinning when the unit is on.

Check the Circuit Breaker

If your outdoor unit isn’t running, check your breaker box. A tripped breaker could be cutting power to part of your system.

Look for Ice on the Coils

Turn the system off if you see frost or ice buildup on the indoor unit. This usually means restricted airflow or a refrigerant issue. A refrigerant issue requires professional AC repair.

Ensure Vents Are Open and Unblocked

Go room to room and check all vents. Closed or blocked vents can affect airflow and cause cooling problems.

Call UAT for Emergency AC Repair

If your AC is still blowing warm air after trying these steps, it’s time to call United Air Temp. Our Orlando team offers 24/7 emergency repairs, same-day service, and highly trained technicians who know how to fix it right the first time.

We provide upfront pricing, written service reports, and a satisfaction guarantee because we treat every customer like a lifelong one.

Need fast, reliable AC repair in Orlando? Request emergency service with United Air Temp today.

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