Air Conditioner Not Cooling? Troubleshooting Tips to Try First

If you do need reliable and affordable air conditioner repair, then call or message Aire Serv to get in touch with a live representative. We're happy to schedule an appointment or arrange urgent assistance for as soon as possible.

Check the Thermostat Settings

It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often a mis-set thermostat is the culprit. Double-check the following:

• Is it set to “Cool” mode?
• Is the temperature set lower than the current room temperature?
• Is the fan set to “Auto” (instead of just "On")?

Also, if your thermostat runs on batteries, try replacing them. A dying battery could mean it’s not sending proper signals to the system.

Inspect the Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons an air conditioner stops cooling the way it should. A blocked filter restricts airflow, and that can cause your system to freeze up or overheat.

Pull out your filter and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it clearly, then it’s time for a change. Most filters should be replaced every 1–3 months... especially in high-use seasons.

Check the Outdoor Unit (Condenser)

The outdoor unit is a key part of your cooling system. If it’s covered in dirt, leaves, or debris, the airflow could be blocked, and that's sure to reduce performance.

Make sure the unit has at least two feet of clearance around it. Use a garden hose to gently rinse off the coils (just be sure the power is off first). If you hear strange noises like rattling or buzzing, then that could point to a deeper issue which should be handled by an HVAC technician.

Make Sure the Circuit Breaker Didn’t Trip

If your AC system suddenly shut off and won’t turn back on, then a circuit breaker may have tripped OFF. Check your electrical panel for a circuit breaker that's in the OFF or middle position. Switch it OFF fully then return it into the ON position.

If you flip it back on and it trips again, then don’t keep resetting it - that’s a sign of a deeper problem. In that case, it's time to call a pro.

Examine the Vents and Ductwork

Sometimes the system is working just fine, but the cool air isn’t getting where it’s supposed to go. Walk around your home and make sure all vents are open and unblocked. If certain rooms feel warmer than others, or airflow seems weak, then the issue may lie within your duct system.

Leaks, blockages, or disconnected ducts can all limit performance - and raise your energy bills. This is when air duct repair or maintenance might be the best next step.

Listen and Smell

Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging are all red flags. Strange smells - like burning, mildew, or something musty - can also indicate internal problems. If anything seems off beyond the normal hum of operation, then it’s safest to stop the system and call in a technician.

Call Aire Serv to Bring in a Pro.

Literally, don't sweat it if you’ve tried the above steps and your air conditioner still isn’t cooling. The dedicated team of uniformed HVAC technicians at Aire Serv are always ready to take your call or message. We are proud to serve residential and commercial properties alike.