There’s nothing worse than your AC running but the house is still feeling hot. In Middle Georgia, that’s not just uncomfortable — it’s unbearable.
At Pruett Air Conditioning, we’ve seen this issue come up again and again, especially during peak summer heat. Sometimes, the fix is as simple as a dirty filter or the wrong thermostat setting — other times, it points to something more serious.
This guide walks you through the most common reasons why your system might be blowing air but not cooling your home. You’ll also learn what you can troubleshoot on your own, what to leave to a professional, and when it might be time to give us a call.
Let’s break it all down and help you get your cool air back.
12 Possible Reasons Your AC Is Running But Not Cooling
1. Your Thermostat Settings Might Be Off
Before checking anything else, take a look at your thermostat. If it’s set to “Fan” instead of “Cool,” the system will blow air without changing the temperature — and if the set temperature is too high, your AC won’t turn on when you expect it to.
Signs of incorrect settings:
- System is blowing air, but it’s not cold
- Display is blank or unresponsive
- Batteries may be dead (for digital models)
Solution: Set the thermostat to “Cool” and lower the temperature a few degrees below the current room temp. Replace the batteries if needed and wait a few minutes to see if the cool air kicks in.
2. Your Air Filter Could Be Clogged
A clogged air filter can choke airflow and prevent cool air from circulating through your home. It also makes your system work harder, which can drive up your energy bills or even cause the system to shut off.
Signs of a dirty filter:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Dust collecting quickly around your home
- Unusually high utility bills
Solution: Filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on use and air quality. During a routine service visit, Pruett Air Conditioning’s certified technicians can inspect, replace, and recommend the right filter type for your system.
3. Vents or Ducts May Be Blocked Inside
If cool air isn’t reaching certain rooms, your vents or return ducts may be blocked. This can happen when furniture, rugs, or other items obstruct airflow, or when there’s debris built up inside the ductwork.
Signs of blocked vents or ducts:
- Uneven temperatures from room to room
- Low airflow even when the system is running
- Visible dust blowing from vents
Solution: Make sure all vents are open and not covered by furniture. If the problem persists, a duct cleaning or inspection may be necessary.
4. Your Outdoor Unit Might Be Dirty or Covered
Your outdoor AC unit is responsible for releasing heat from inside your home. If it’s clogged with leaves, grass, or dirt, the system can’t work efficiently — and your indoor air stays warm.
Signs of a dirty outdoor unit:
- AC runs constantly with little cooling
- Warm air blowing from indoor vents
- Outdoor unit is hot to the touch or visibly clogged
Solution: Clear at least 2 feet of space around the unit and rinse the coils gently with a hose. For a thorough cleaning or seasonal inspection, Pruett Air Conditioning provides full condenser servicing as part of regular maintenance.
5. The Evaporator Coil Might Be Frozen
Your evaporator coil pulls heat from your indoor air. If the coil freezes due to low airflow or a refrigerant issue, the AC won’t be able to cool properly.
Signs of a frozen coil:
- Ice on refrigerant lines or around the unit
- Puddles forming under the indoor unit
- Reduced airflow or warmer air than expected
Solution: Shut off your system and allow it to thaw completely. If the coil continues freezing, it’s important to contact a professional for diagnostics and proper refrigerant level testing.
6. There Could Be a Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is what actually cools the air inside your home — and your system doesn’t “use it up” like fuel. If levels are low, it usually means there’s a leak, and your AC won’t be able to cool properly no matter how long it runs.
Signs of a refrigerant issue:
- AC takes much longer to cool your home
- Hissing or bubbling noises near the lines
- Ice buildup on refrigerant lines or indoor unit
Solution: Refrigerant must be handled by certified technicians. Pruett’s EPA-certified professionals can detect leaks, seal them, and recharge your system to meet factory specifications.
7. The Condenser Fan May Not Be Working Properly
The condenser fan — located in the outdoor unit — helps push heat out of your system. If the fan isn’t spinning or it’s moving slowly, the system can’t cool efficiently and may start overheating.
You might still hear the indoor fan running, but the air won’t feel cold. If you notice the outdoor fan isn’t working or hear strange noises, it’s time to shut off the system and call a professional.
8. A Failing Capacitor Might Be Preventing Cooling
The capacitor is a small but essential part that helps start the compressor and fan motors. If it’s failing, your AC may run without actually producing cool air — or it might shut down entirely after a few minutes.
This is a common issue in older units, especially during extreme heat. Because capacitors deal with electrical current, repairs should always be handled by a qualified technician. Pruett’s HVAC team can diagnose capacitor failure on-site and replace it with a compatible, high-quality component.
9. Your System Might Be Too Small for Your Home
If your AC is undersized, it will constantly run but never fully cool the space — especially during the peak of a Georgia summer. This often happens in older homes that were retrofitted or when an addition increases the cooling load.
Signs your AC may be too small:
- The unit runs for long periods without reaching the set temperature
- Some rooms are consistently warmer than others
- Energy bills are higher than expected for the level of comfort
Solution: An HVAC technician can evaluate whether your system is properly sized. In some cases, adding a ductless unit in problem areas or upgrading to a larger system may be the best solution.
10. Your Ductwork Might Be Leaking
Cool air could be escaping through gaps or disconnected sections in your ductwork, especially in attics or crawl spaces. That means your AC is doing the work, but the cool air isn’t making it to your living spaces.
If your system seems to be running normally but certain rooms never cool down, leaky ducts could be the culprit. A professional inspection can pinpoint the problem and seal any weak spots to restore proper airflow.
11. Your System May Be Too Old to Keep Up
If your AC is more than 10–15 years old, age alone could be the issue. Even if it’s technically “working,” older systems often lose efficiency and struggle to keep up with the heat — especially during a Middle Georgia summer.
Over time, wear and tear can affect everything from the compressor to the blower motor. If your system’s been needing more frequent repairs, it might be a sign that it’s reaching the end of its lifespan.
Solution: A professional can assess the system’s performance and let you know if it’s worth repairing — or if an upgrade will save you money and keep your home more comfortable in the long run.
12. The Heat Pump May Not Be in Cooling Mode
If you have a heat pump system, it handles both heating and cooling. Sometimes, the reversing valve that switches between the two modes can stick — which means your system stays in heating mode even when you’re trying to cool the house.
You might hear the system running normally, but the air blowing out is warm. This is especially common in systems that haven’t been serviced before the seasonal switch.
Try resetting your thermostat first. If that doesn’t fix the issue, call a technician to check the reversing valve or system controls.
How to Prevent Cooling Problems in the Future
Consistent care and seasonal attention can go a long way in preventing most common AC issues. Below are key habits and maintenance practices that help extend the life of your system and reduce the likelihood of costly breakdowns.
Change Your Filter Regularly
A clean air filter allows proper airflow and keeps dust, allergens, and debris from building up inside your system. When a filter becomes clogged, it can restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and increase strain on components like the blower motor and evaporator coil.
For most homes, filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and indoor air quality needs.
Schedule a Spring Tune-Up
Having your AC serviced before the peak cooling season allows technicians to inspect critical parts, check refrigerant levels, clean internal components, and identify any signs of wear. This preventive approach can catch small issues early, helping you avoid unexpected repairs during the summer months.
Spring is an ideal time, as it ensures your system is ready before demand and temperatures rise.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Your outdoor condenser unit needs open space on all sides to allow proper heat exchange. When airflow is blocked by overgrown landscaping, leaves, or debris, the system must work harder to cool your home, which can lead to overheating or premature wear.
Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit and avoid stacking objects or planting shrubs too close.
Consider a Preventative Maintenance Plan
Regular, professional maintenance supports your system’s performance and longevity. With scheduled visits, technicians can monitor system health, clean coils, test electrical connections, and make minor adjustments that improve efficiency.
Pruett Air Conditioning offers maintenance plans for homeowners in Warner Robins, Eastman, and surrounding areas, designed to make seasonal servicing simple and reliable. It’s a practical way to keep your system running smoothly year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can high humidity affect how well my AC cools?
Yes, high humidity can make your home feel warmer even if your AC is running. If the system isn’t removing enough moisture from the air, it can struggle to maintain comfort. This may be a sign of a system that’s undersized or in need of service.
Should I turn off my AC if it’s not cooling?
If your system is blowing warm air, running constantly, or showing signs of a problem (like ice or leaks), it’s best to shut it off. Letting it run in that state can cause further damage to key components.
Can a power surge affect my AC’s performance?
Yes, a power surge can damage sensitive electronic controls or trip the breaker, causing your system to run improperly or not cool at all. If your AC started acting up after a storm or outage, it’s worth having it inspected.
Is it normal for my AC to take a while to cool the house?
It depends on outdoor conditions and how well your home holds cool air. However, if it takes significantly longer than usual, it could point to airflow issues, low refrigerant, or an aging system losing efficiency.
Why is only one room not cooling while the rest are fine?
This could be caused by a blocked vent, leaky ductwork, or insulation issues in that specific area. It’s a localized problem but still worth investigating, especially if it persists.
Does using ceiling fans help when the AC isn’t cooling well?
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and make a room feel cooler, but they don’t lower the actual temperature. If your AC isn’t cooling properly, fans may offer temporary relief — but they don’t replace fixing the underlying issue.
Need a Hand with Your AC? We’ve Got You
Not every cooling problem needs a major repair, but when it does, it helps to know someone you trust is nearby. That’s what we’re here for.
Pruett Air Conditioning has helped thousands of Middle Georgia families get their comfort back, quickly and professionally. If your AC’s running but not cooling, give us a call — we’re ready when you are.
