Why Is My AC Running But Not Cooling?

There’s nothing more frustrating on a sweltering Georgia afternoon than your air conditioner sounding like it’s working, but delivering warm air. Here are the most common reasons, and why catching them early can save you time, stress, and money.

1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter

A dirty filter is the top culprit. Filters clogged with dust and pet hair restrict airflow and make it hard to cool your home. This can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, reducing efficiency.

Fix: Replace or clean your filter every 1–3 months (or more if you have pets). Regular filter upkeep helps avoid unnecessary service calls.

2. Low Refrigerant or Leaks

Refrigerant absorbs heat from inside and releases it outside. If levels are low, often due to a leak, your system can run endlessly without cooling effectively. Leaks can also lead to ice buildup on lines or coils.

Fix: Only a licensed technician can handle refrigerant safely. At Ogeechee Heating and Air, our EPA‑certified experts will locate and repair leaks before recharging your system to exact specifications.

3. Blocked or Dirty Condenser Coils

The outdoor condenser unit needs unobstructed airflow to release heat. If it’s clogged with leaves, grass, or debris—or is too close to shrubs—the unit overheats and fails to cool.

Fix: Keep at least two feet clear around the unit and gently rinse off coils. Our comprehensive maintenance visits ensure the condenser is debris‑free and operating at peak efficiency.

4. Frozen Evaporator Coils

When filters are dirty or refrigerant is low, the evaporator coil can freeze. Ice buildup blocks airflow and heating stops altogether.

Fix: Turn off the system for thawing. If freezing is recurring, call us. We’ll find the root cause—whether it’s airflow or refrigerant—and fix it fast.

5. Thermostat Malfunctions

Sometimes it's not the AC—it's the thermostat. Incorrect settings, dead batteries, or faulty sensors can cause the system to run without activating cooling mode.

Fix: Double-check the settings and battery. If it’s malfunctioning, we can repair or upgrade your thermostat—potentially saving on energy bills with smart or programmable models.

6. Electrical Issues & Faulty Components

Problems like a blown fuse, tripped breaker, failing capacitor, or worn compressor can allow the AC to run but not cool.

Fix: Our team can safely diagnose and repair complex electrical faults—from simple breaker resets to capacitor replacements and compressor repairs.

7. Leaky or Poorly Insulated Ductwork

Even with a healthy system, leaks in your ducts can let cool air escape before it reaches your rooms.

Fix: We inspect ductwork and seal or add insulation where needed, maximizing your system's cooling efficiency and comfort.

8. Incorrectly Sized System

If your AC is too small, it’ll run constantly without reaching set temperatures. If too large, it’ll cycle on/off, leaving your home humid and uncomfortable.

Fix: We perform Manual J load calculations to ensure the right size for your home. Whether it’s a retrofit or replacement, we match your needs exactly, no guessing.

Why Choose Ogeechee Heating and Air?

When your AC runs but doesn't cool, you need real award‑winning expertise—and that's exactly what we offer:

• Local and family‑owned since 2005: We live here and care deeply about our community, serving southeast Georgia and South Carolina.
• Carrier® Factory Authorized Dealer: We install top‑tier systems with full warranty support.
• Certified, experienced technicians: We're skilled in diagnostics, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, and repairs across all brands.
• Prompt 24/7 service & transparent pricing: No hidden fees or surprise bills—just honest, upfront estimates and same‑day support.
• Preventative maintenance plans: Regular cleanings and tune‑ups keep your system running smoothly—helping you avoid future breakdowns.
• Community‑trusted with 5‑star reviews: Our neighbors rave about our punctuality, professionalism, and reliability.

Keep Your Cool This Summer

If your AC is running but not cooling, don’t wait for total system failure. Start with simple steps like checking filters and thermostat settings. But for anything more serious—frozen coils, suspected leaks, electrical faults, or a failing compressor—call your trusted local professionals.

Ogeechee Heating and Air is ready to restore comfort to your home with expert diagnostics, honest communication, and fast, courteous service. Let us earn your trust like hundreds of your neighbors, we’re just a call away!