Why Is My AC Running But Not Cooling the House?

When the Michigan summer heat is in full swing, few things are more frustrating than an air conditioner that runs constantly but doesn’t cool your home. If you’ve ever thought, “Why is my AC not cooling in Plymouth, MI even though it’s running?” you’re not alone. At Ehlers Heating & Cooling, we’ve helped countless local homeowners solve this exact issue. Let’s break down some common causes, what you can do to troubleshoot, and when it’s time to call the professionals.

Common Causes of an AC That Runs But Doesn’t Cool

• Dirty air filters: Clogged filters are one of the most common reasons for an air conditioner running but not cold. When airflow is restricted, your system can’t push cool air through your home efficiently.
• Low refrigerant levels: Refrigerant is what absorbs heat from your home. If your system is low due to a leak, you may notice warm air blowing from your vents or ice forming on the coils. Only a licensed technician can safely recharge refrigerant.
• Frozen evaporator coil: When airflow is restricted or refrigerant is low, your evaporator coil can freeze. This prevents your AC from cooling properly and often requires professional service to thaw and repair.
• Thermostat issues: Sometimes the problem is as simple as incorrect settings. If your thermostat is set to “fan” instead of “cool,” your system will run but won’t produce cold air.

How to Troubleshoot Before Calling a Professional

Before calling for AC service in Plymouth, MI, here are a few quick steps you can try:

• Check the thermostat settings: Make sure it’s set to “cool” and the temperature is set below your current room temperature.
• Inspect and replace air filters: If your filter looks dirty, swap it out. This is a quick, low-cost fix that often restores cooling power.
• Ensure vents are open and unobstructed: Walk through your home and make sure no furniture, rugs, or curtains are blocking airflow from your vents.

These steps won’t solve every issue, but they can rule out the simple problems before you schedule service.

When to Call Ehlers Heating and Cooling

If your AC still isn’t cooling after checking the basics, it’s time to bring in a professional. Signs that require expert help include:

• Warm air continues to blow from vents even after changing the filter
• Ice buildup on the evaporator coil
• Unusual sounds like hissing, buzzing, or grinding
• High energy bills without improved comfort

These often point to refrigerant leaks, mechanical failures, or electrical issues that require a trained technician. At Ehlers Heating & Cooling, we’ve been providing trusted AC repair in Plymouth, MI since 1961. Our team is Carrier-certified and experienced in diagnosing and repairing all makes and models of air conditioners.

Preventative Maintenance Tips to Keep Your AC Cooling Efficiently

The best way to avoid a cooling breakdown is to stay ahead of problems with regular care.

Here’s how:

• Schedule regular maintenance visits: Professional tune-ups catch small issues before they turn into big repairs. Our AC maintenance services include cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting key components.
• Change filters on schedule: Aim to replace filters every 1–3 months, especially during peak cooling season.
• Book seasonal tune-ups: Having your AC inspected each spring ensures it’s ready to handle the summer heat without surprises.

Stay Comfortable with Ehlers Heating & Cooling

If your air conditioner is running but not cooling, don’t wait until your home is unbearably hot. Try the quick troubleshooting steps above, and if the problem persists, call the experts at Ehlers Heating & Cooling. We’ve been keeping Plymouth, MI homes comfortable for more than 60 years, and we’re ready to help you too.

Contact us today to schedule your AC repair or maintenance service and restore cool comfort to your home.